Olubadan of Ibadanland's 90th Birthday Celebration

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, recently celebrated two significant milestones: his 90th birthday and his first coronation anniversary on the throne. These celebrations garnered widespread felicitations from prominent figures, including members of the National Assembly who lauded the monarch's leadership and impact on Ibadanland.
Akin Alabi, the representative for Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Works in the House of Representatives, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Oba Olakulehin. In a statement released on Saturday, Alabi characterized the monarch as "a leader of grace, character, and integrity." He also shared a personal connection, noting that the Olubadan was a close friend and contemporary of his late father, Chief Adediran Alabi. Furthermore, Akin Alabi expressed deep gratitude for holding the title of Jagun Olubadan under Oba Olakulehin’s reign, considering it a "full-circle moment" for his family. The lawmaker additionally commended the monarch’s distinguished public service, which includes a notable tenure as a member of the House of Representatives and a career in the military. Alabi lauded Oba Olakulehin for continuing to lead with the "calm dignity of a statesman and the affectionate firmness of a father to all," emphasizing that the monarch hailing from his federal constituency of Ona-Ara further strengthens their shared purpose. Concluding his message, Alabi offered prayers for the Olubadan’s sustained strength, sound health, and divine wisdom, wishing him a long, peaceful, and prosperous reign as he marks both his nonagenarian birthday and first year on the throne.
Similarly, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing the Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly and also serving as the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, conveyed his felicitations to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on the dual occasion of his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary. In a personally signed statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, Senator Alli described the traditional ruler's reign as notably "peaceful, impactful and a great blessing to Ibadanland." He highlighted that Oba Olakulehin’s ascension to the throne occurred at a crucial time when Ibadanland was in need of a "wise, experienced, and fatherly figure" to guide its traditional institution towards significant progress. Senator Alli further praised the Olubadan's steadfast commitment to preserving Ibadan's rich customs and values, as well as his unwavering support for development and harmony across the region. Concluding his message, Senator Alli invoked prayers for Almighty God to continue blessing the Olubadan with robust health, exceptional wisdom, and many more years on the throne, wishing him a joyous celebration of these important milestones.
Both lawmakers underscored the profound respect and admiration held for Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, acknowledging his significant contributions to Ibadanland and praying for his continued well-being and a successful reign. These messages collectively celebrate a monarch who has demonstrated remarkable leadership and garnered immense goodwill from his people and political leaders alike.