…Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin’s Coronation Set for 9 Days After Milestone Birthday
On the eve of his 89th birthday, the family of His Imperial Majesty Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, has officially released his profile and pictures for media use. This announcement comes just nine days before his coronation, marking a significant moment in Ibadan’s rich history.
Born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja Village near Akanran in Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State, Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin descends from prominent Ibadan lineages. His parents, Pa Ishola-Okin Owolabi and Madam Adunola Aweni Opo Ajilaran Omoyoade Owolabi, anchored his roots within the ancient city of Ibadan at Ita-Baale Olugbode. His maternal lineage, the Kusidi family, is also a recognized chieftaincy family in Ibadanland.
Oba Olakulehin’s educational journey began at St James Primary School, Oke Akaran, followed by Islamic School, Odoiye, and St Peter Primary School, Aremo. After teaching as a primary school teacher in Wakajaiye, Ibadan, he pursued further education at Yaba Technical Institute, specializing in printing and artwork. He later joined the Ministry of Works, Western Region Government in Ibadan, where he obtained his OND and HND in Building from Yaba College of Technology.
In 1970, he enlisted in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers through the Direct Short Service Commission, serving under General Olusegun Obasanjo. Rising to the rank of Major, he held various command positions before retiring voluntarily on October 1, 1979, after a distinguished twenty-year military career.
Transitioning to the business world, Oba Olakulehin founded FAKOL Nigeria Limited, a building contracting company. He also operated Olakulehin Press, later renamed Solid Prints, and established FAKOL Bakery, renowned for its Fakol Loaves and pastries.
A founding member of the Social Democratic Party in Oyo State, he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1992, representing Ibadan South East Constituency, and served as Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army. In 1983, he became Mogaji of the Ige Olakulehin Family, and in 1986, he was installed as Jaagun Balogun of Ibadan Land. Elevated to the Olubadan-In-Council in 2006, he was appointed Balogun of Ibadan in 2016.
Following the directive of the Olubadan-In-Council, Oba Olakulehin retired from active politics to focus on the welfare and development of Ibadanland. A dedicated family man and committed Christian, he has been a steadfast supporter of Ibadan’s communities and businesses.
As Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin’s coronation approaches, the people of Ibadan anticipate his continued leadership and contributions to the city’s heritage and growth.
Toye Arulogun released the profile on behalf of the family and the Monarch-in-waiting.