All markets across Ibadanland were shut down on Friday morning in honour of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who was laid to rest following a series of solemn funeral rites.
The revered monarch, who served as the 43rd Olubadan, passed away on July 7, 2025, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday. His final burial took place on Friday, August 8, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abass, directed all market leaders to ensure the closure of their respective markets from 5 a.m. to 12 noon on Friday. The directive was aimed at allowing traders and residents to pay their last respects to the late traditional ruler.
Abass praised Oba Olakulehin for his impactful reign, stating that the monarch diligently served Ibadanland, Oyo State, and the nation at large. “Traders and artisans in Ibadan will continue to remember the late monarch for maintaining peace and creating an enabling environment for marketers in the ancient city,” he said.
The final funeral rites began on Thursday with a lying-in-state ceremony at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan South East Local Government Area. The event drew dignitaries from various walks of life, including members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), family heads (Mogajis), religious leaders, traditional worshippers, and government officials.
Femi Ibikunle, Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Interfaith Affairs, described the late Olubadan as “an astute and articulate traditional ruler,” praising his dedication to peace and interfaith harmony throughout his reign.
Also paying tribute, the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, said Oba Olakulehin lived a life of service and left behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations.
On behalf of the royal family, the monarch’s first son, Sunmbo Owolabi, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Ibadan and various stakeholders for their support. He prayed for continued growth and unity in Ibadanland.
The day’s events also included a Christian wake held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, within the Ibadan North Local Government Area, as part of the traditional rites of passage for the late king.
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