All markets in Ibadan land were closed on Friday morning in a show of respect for the late Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, whose burial ceremony took place today, August 8, 2025.
The revered monarch, who passed away on July 7, just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday, will be laid to rest at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Aremo, Ibadan.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Yekeen Abass, directed all markets to shut down from 5 am to 12 noon on Friday. This was in recognition of the late king’s lifelong service to the state, the country, and particularly to Ibadanland.
Abass expressed that the closure was a symbolic gesture to honor the Olubadan’s enduring legacy. “Oba Olakulehin diligently served the country, the state, and most importantly, Ibadanland,” he said, adding that traders and artisans in Ibadan would remember the late monarch for his efforts in maintaining peace and creating an enabling environment for local markets to thrive.
He also urged market leaders to ensure that the directive was fully adhered to, stressing the importance of paying respects to the monarch who was instrumental in fostering unity among diverse groups in the region.
“Let me advise the market leaders in Ibadanland to ensure strict compliance with the directive in their various markets,” Abass concluded, while offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed king and strength for his family during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, the final rites for Oba Olakulehin began on Thursday with a lying-in-state ceremony at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan South East Local Government Area. The event saw a wide array of dignitaries, including members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis (family heads), religious leaders from different faiths, and traditional worshippers, all coming together to honor the late monarch.
Femi Ibikunle, Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Interfaith Affairs, described the late Olubadan as “an astute and articulate traditional ruler” who always prioritized the welfare of his people. “He was hardworking and accommodating, and his tolerance of all religious groups helped ensure peace during his reign,” Ibikunle said.
The President of the Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori, also paid tribute to Oba Olakulehin, praising him for living a meritorious life and leaving an indelible impact on Ibadanland.
Sunmbo Owolabi, the first son of the late monarch, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family to the CCII, Mogajis, and all Ibadan indigenes for their support during this trying time. He prayed that Ibadanland would continue to grow stronger in the face of the loss.
In the evening, a Christian wake was held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan North Local Government Area, as part of the ongoing funeral ceremonies. This service was a continuation of the rites of passage for the late Oba Olakulehin, who was deeply revered by the people of Ibadan and beyond.
