In a recent development, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, is preparing to move to the new ultramodern Olubadan Palace located at Oke Aremo in the Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. This information was gathered by NewsNow on Monday.
Following his coronation on July 12, the monarch had been residing at his private residence in the Alalubosa Government Reserved Area of the town.
NewsNow reported that the unveiling of the new palace took place on July 10, 2024, by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with the support of prominent Ibadan indigenes.
The former palace, situated in Oja’ba within the Ibadan South East Local Government Area, was last inhabited by the late Olubadan Yesufu Asanike, who reigned from 1983 to 1993.
Subsequent Olubadans following the reign of the late Oba Asanike have been conducting official duties from their personal residences.
NewsNow gathered that Oba Olakulehin opted to postpone all official engagements until a thanksgiving service, which was held on Sunday at the St. Peters Cathedral in Aremo, Ibadan.
A source within the palace informed NewsNow that, “Kabiyesi Olakulehin had made it known that he would not entertain visitors until his relocation to the new palace. He has also decided not to move until the thanksgiving service to express gratitude for his coronation. With the service held on Sunday, the Olubadan will be relocating to the modern palace on Wednesday.”
Another source confirmed, “Indeed, our esteemed Oba Olakulehin will shift to the new palace. This decision was made following the thanksgiving church service at Aremo, where it was agreed that Kabiyesi should commence official duties at the new palace, in accordance with the 1957 Chieftaincy Law (as amended).
“This development led to the postponement of the inaugural meeting of the Olubadan Advisory Council initially scheduled for Monday at the new palace.
“The meeting is expected to finalize the date for the presentation of the ceremonial beaded crown to the former state governor and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja.”
NewsNow mentioned that High Chief Ladoja, in an interaction with reporters at his residence on Ondo Street, agreed to accept the beaded crown following the intervention of concerned individuals.