YORUBA YOUTH COUNCIL MOURNS OLUBADAN OF IBADANLAND…………
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Yoruba Council of Youths Worldwide (YCYW), the apex body representing Yoruba youths globally, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who recently joined his ancestors.
In a statement signed by the Council’s Publicity Secretary and Spokesperson, Mr. Ajibode Abd’kabir, the group described the monarch’s demise as a great loss to Ibadanland, the Yoruba Nation, and Nigeria as a whole.
“Oba Olakulehin’s reign was marked by peace, progress, and innovation. He was a unifying figure who upheld the rich traditions of Ibadanland and contributed significantly to the cultural and social development of Yoruba land,” the statement read.
Ajibode noted that the news of the monarch’s death came as a rude shock, especially after the recent celebration of his 90th birthday. “We are reminded that only God gives and takes life according to His divine will,” he added.
On behalf of Yoruba youths across the world, the Council extended heartfelt condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Government of Oyo State, and all sons and daughters of Ibadanland, including the Council’s National Coordinator, Asoju Ọdọ Alawode, Comrade Rahman Akintunde, and other Ibadan-born members.
The Council prayed for God to grant the entire Yoruba Nation the strength to bear this great loss and wished the departed monarch eternal rest.