The Olakulehin Royal Family has announced the public presentation of a commemorative book titled “How Not to Be a King” in honour of the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin I).
Originally planned to mark the revered monarch’s 90th birthday and the first anniversary of his ascension to the throne, the book will now be launched as part of the final burial rites on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, by 1:00 p.m.
Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025—just two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and five days before his coronation anniversary.
According to an official invitation signed by Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, the book captures the personal, political, and cultural journey of the late monarch. It includes reflections from family members, the Olubadan-in-Council, friends, and associates, chronicling the wisdom, humility, and progressive leadership for which Oba Olakulehin was widely known.
“The family has decided to go ahead with the public presentation of the book How Not to Be a King as a way of honouring and immortalising the values and leadership ideals of the late Oba Olakulehin,” the statement read.
The Olakulehin family called on dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and the general public to attend the event and pay tribute to a monarch who they described as a symbol of peace, unity, and cultural preservation in Ibadanland.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is expected to lead the list of prominent guests at the book presentation, which will be held shortly after the interment and final funeral rites.
Oba Olakulehin was celebrated for his progressive stance on traditional leadership, his emphasis on educational development, and his efforts to foster unity across the diverse communities of Ibadanland. His passing marked the end of an era in the city’s rich traditional history, leaving a legacy the family believes will endure through the pages of How Not to Be a King.
The book’s presentation is anticipated to be both a solemn reflection and a celebration of a royal life well lived.
