* Ibadan markets to observe partial closure
The late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, will be buried on Friday, August 8, 2025.
It is expected that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State will lead dignitaries across the country to St. Peter’s Church, Aremo, Ibadan, for the funeral service of the 43rd Olubadan.
According to the Olubadan Palace Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, a book presentation in honour of the late Olubadan would also be held on Friday.
He said that the presentation of the book titled “How Not to Be a King”, would be held during the funeral reception at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
“The book presentation was initially penned down to mark Oba Olakulehin’s 90th birthday and his coronation anniversary, but Kabiyesi’s demise on July 7 was responsible for the postponement,” Ayoade said.
According to him, the book x-rays the life and times of Olakulehin.
“It also features personal reflections and testimonies from family members, friends, associates, and members of the Olubadan Advisory Council,” he said.
The palace press secretary added that the late Olubadan was known for his commitment to the unity and progress of Ibadanland.
As a build-up to the funeral, various activities are currently taking place at the late Olubadan’s residence in Alalubosa GRA, Aleshiloye, and the Central Palace in Oke Aremo.
Meanwhile, the Babaloja General in Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abass, and market leaders in Ibadan have declared the closure of markets in Ibadanland till 12 noon to honour the late Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The partial closure of markets in Ibadan, according to Alhaji Abass, is expected to start from 5 o’clock in the morning till 12 noon.
He explained that the temporary closure of markets in the ancient city is to give respect to the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Olakuleyin, who has diligently served the country, Oyo State and, most importantly, Ibadanland.
The Babaloja said traders and artisans in Ibadan will continue to remember the late monarch for maintaining peace and creating an enabling environment for marketers in the ancient city.
Abass also urged the market leaders in Ibadanland to ensure strict compliance with the directive in their various markets.
He, however, prayed for the monarch’s eternal rest and for God to give the family the fortitude to bear the loss.