Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, is alive and in good health, despite rumors circulating on social media about his demise.
Michael Ogunsina, spokesperson for the Oyo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissed the reports, citing confirmation from the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun.
A statement shared by X user Akin Akinwale read:
“I just spoke with the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Oyo State, and he has confirmed that Kabiyesi Olubadan Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is alive, hale, and hearty. Kindly ignore the purveyors of fake news. Olorun a bá wà di Baba mú.”
Gbenga Ayoade, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, also refuted the claims, stating, “The Olubadan just finished eating amala. He is hale and healthy. It is just a rumor.”
Ayoade further clarified that the monarch remains in Ibadan and has not been flown out for medical treatment.
Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin was crowned as the 43rd Olubadan on July 12, 2024, succeeding the late Oba Mahood Lekan Balogun, who passed away on March 14, 2024, at the age of 81.
