A 21-day mourning has been declared in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital to honour the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed on in the early hours of Monday after a prolonged illness at a private hospital in the city.

The mourning, which started yesterday, is in line with the age-old tradition of the ancient city.

Following the conclusion of the mourning, members of the Olubadan-in-Council are expected to begin the traditional process of selecting and installing a new Olubadan.

According to the succession hierarchy, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, is next in line.

Commissioner of Police(CP), Oyo State Command, Johnson Adenola, has announced security measures to ensure a smooth transition for the late monarch.

In a statement, he listed the measures to include strategic deployment of the command’s intelligence and operational resources, particularly around the Olubadan’s palace.

Adenola further stated that the command had put in place enhanced visibility policing, convoy patrols, in collaboration with sister agencies, and rigorous surveillance.

He said the moves had begun with intelligence-led stop-and-search initiatives throughout the metropolitan area and beyond.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has condoled with the government and people of Oyo on the passage of Oba Olakulehin.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the governor described the foremost monarch as a bridge builder, unifier and father.

He said the late paramount ruler cemented the bonds of unity between Oyo and Bayelsa.

Former Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, in a statement by the head of his Media Office,  Ahmad Sajoh, said: “Oba Olakulehin’s reign, though brief, was impactful as he was a progressive royal father who believed in using tradition to support good governance, social development, and the unity of Nigerians.’’

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Olawunmi Ojo, Adams said Nigeria had lost a peacemaker.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adams described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler, cultural custodian and statesman who dedicated his life to humanity and Yoruba heritage.

The Aare commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, Oyo State Government and  people of Ibadanland over the loss.

According to him, though Oba Olakulehin’s reign was brief, it brought peace and notable progress across Ibadan for both indigenes and residents..

Adams recalled the warm reception given to Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) members during their World Congress’ visit in January.

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan at his private residence at Alalubosa GRA, Ibadan.

The delegation was led by CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole

The CCII delegation was received by the late monarch’s younger brother, Dr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin, and his eldest child, Prince Olasumbo Owolabi Olakulehin.

Chief Ajewole said: “Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin was a father to us all, a bridge-builder and a man of exemplary character. He was the first Olubadan to live in the newly built Olubadan Palace.

“His reign, though short, was marked by dignity and humility. Ibadan experienced peace and prosperity during his reign.

“We have come to commiserate with the family and to pray that God grants him eternal rest.”

Osuolale expressed appreciation for the visit and the show of solidarity.