The son of the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has dismissed rumors that his father is unwell or incapable of assuming the throne.
In a meeting with The PUNCH on Wednesday, Sumbo Owolabi confirmed that Oba Olakulehin is in good health and will soon be making his first public appearance. He also assured that his father will attend the next meeting of the Council of Obas in Ibadanland. The clarification comes amidst concerns about Oba Olakulehin's absence at a recent meeting to deliberate on his appointment as the next Olubadan.
The Olubadan stool became vacant following the death of Oba Lekan Balogun on March 14, 2023. Initially, it was reported that the Council of Obas would meet on Tuesday to formally nominate Oba Olakulehin to Governor Seyi Makinde for his appointment as the Olubadan. However, the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, raised concerns about Oba Olakulehin's absence at the meeting, insinuating that the Olubadan-designate might be unwell.
In response, Sumbo Owolabi explained that his father had gone on a medical trip before Oba Balogun's demise and had stayed back to rest. He further stated that due to Oba Olakulehin's age, his doctor advised him to relax and conserve his energy, as he will soon have to receive numerous visitors as the new king. Owolabi also debunked rumors that the crowned Obas had not seen his father, confirming that they have already met and interacted.
Owolabi revealed that renovations will soon commence at both the family house and his father's private residence in preparation for his coronation as the next Olubadan. The State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters will oversee the inauguration of the Coronation Planning Committee.
Owolabi therefore emphasized that his father's absence from the previous meeting was intentional and had nothing to do with his health. He assured that Oba Olakulehin will join the Obas at their next meeting, whenever it is convened.