The Oyo State Government has dismissed recent rumors surrounding the alleged death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Speculation arose on Monday night suggesting the 89-year-old monarch had passed away, but the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, firmly refuted these claims. He confirmed that the Olubadan is alive and in good health, adding that he had spoken directly with one of the monarch’s sons, Prince Olaseke Owolabi Olakulehin, who verified his father’s well-being.
Echoing this sentiment, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Gbenga Ayoade, also denied the rumors, emphasizing that the monarch is in good health. Ayoade clarified that as of 8 p.m. on Monday, the palace was functioning normally, with no signs of crisis. He further addressed false claims that the Olubadan had been flown out of Ibadan for medical treatment, stating unequivocally that the monarch remains in the city and is doing well.
These official statements aim to reassure the public and put an end to the baseless rumors circulating about the Olubadan’s health.