Hon. Umar Farouk Arisekola Alao, Ibadan North Federal Constituency hopeful and former Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I), the Olubadan of Ibadanland, who joined his ancestors in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025.

The late monarch, who ascended the throne in July 2024 and recently marked his 90th birthday, is being mourned across the length and breadth of Ibadanland and beyond for his revered leadership and quiet strength in traditional stewardship.

In a condolence message released on Monday, Arisekola Alao described the news of the monarch’s passing as shocking, particularly for the people of Ibadanland who had only recently celebrated his milestone birthday and his reign, however brief, as Olubadan.

“I received with great shock the sad news of the passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. It is a heavy loss to the traditional institution, the city of Ibadan, and indeed the entire Oyo State. Kabiyesi was a symbol of dignity, wisdom, and continuity in our cherished customs and history.”

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, the Oyo State Government, the immediate and extended families of the late monarch, and all sons and daughters of Ibadanland.

“May Almighty Allah grant the soul of our departed monarch eternal rest and give his family, Ibadanland, and the state at large the strength to bear this great loss.”