By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, on Thursday.
The monarch passed on last night at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said.
Mr Balogun ascended the throne about two years ago at the age of 80 after the demise of his predecessor, Oba Saliu Adetunji, in January 2022 at 93 years old.
“With total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing unto glory of our father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“A mighty Iroko has fallen; Oba Balogun has joined the ancestors,” Governor Makinde announced in the statement last night.
Mr Makinde described the late traditional ruler as an epitome of royal excellence and a great achiever, who made great marks on Ibadanland in just a little over two years of his reign.
He expressed his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State, praying to God to grant repose to the soul of the deceased monarch.
“In Kabiyesi, Ibadanland had a cosmopolitan and well-experienced Olubadan, who made indelible marks on the sands of history and achieved greatly within a short while.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Oyo State, I condole with the immediate family of the Oba Balogun, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland.
“It is my prayer that God grants repose to the soul of our late monarch,” he added.
Adedapo Adesanya