Army Honors Late Major Oba Akinloye Iyanda Olakulehin, 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, at Final Burial

The late His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Iyanda Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, was laid to rest on August 8, 2025, in a dignified ceremony at the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter’s Cemetery, Aremo, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The event was marked by a solemn military tribute befitting his distinguished career and significant contributions to both his community and nation.

Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village near Akanran, Ibadan, Oba Olakulehin’s early education spanned several institutions in Ibadan, culminating in vocational studies at Yaba Technical Institute. He later earned an Ordinary Diploma and a Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering from Yaba College of Technology. His professional journey began in the Western Region Ministry of Works before he joined the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers in 1970 through a Direct Short Service Commission, achieving the rank of Major by April 1973. He served commendably in various command roles, including Troops Commander at the 2 Field Engineer Regiment and Commanding Officer for multiple maintenance regiments across the country, before voluntarily retiring on October 1, 1979.

Post-military, Oba Olakulehin became a successful entrepreneur, founding FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, Olakulehin Press (later Solid Prints), and FAKOL Bakery, contributing to Ibadan’s economic development. He was also active politically, notably as a founding member of the Social Democratic Party in Oyo State and a Member of the House of Representatives in Nigeria’s Third Republic, where he chaired the House Committee on the Nigerian Army.

His chieftaincy path was marked by steady progress, starting as Mogaji of the Ige Olakulehin family in 1983, advancing to Jagun Balogun in 1986, and eventually becoming Balogun of Ibadan in 2016. After the death of his predecessor, Oba Lekan Balogun, he ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan on July 12, 2024.

ADVERTISEMENT

The burial ceremony drew numerous dignitaries, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu, other security chiefs, members of the Olubadan-in-Council, royal fathers, family members, and a large congregation from across Nigeria.

Governor Makinde and the military paid special tribute to the late monarch’s dedication to peace, unity, and development in Ibadanland. His coffin was draped with the Nigerian flag, and the military performed the customary gun salute, underscoring his legacy as both a revered traditional ruler and a distinguished soldier.

The community observed a day of mourning, with markets shutting down in Ibadan to honor his memory. The burial concluded a week-long mourning period that included a lying-in-state at Mapo Hall and various religious and cultural rites reflective of his profound impact on his people.

Oba Akinloye Iyanda Owolabi Olakulehin’s legacy as a disciplined military officer, visionary entrepreneur, committed legislator, and compassionate monarch will long be remembered in Ibadan and beyond.