THE Oyo State Government has dismissed media reports about the death of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
The rumour, which did the rounds on Monday night, said the 89-year-old monarch had passed, prompting widespread concerns in Ibadan.
In a statement to a mainstream news publication, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, assured the public that the Olubadan was “alive, hale, and hearty.”
Olatunbosun emphasized the importance of verifying information before spreading it, especially concerning public figures like the revered monarch.
Prince Olaseke Owolabi Olakulehin, one of the Olubadan’s sons, was also referenced in the commissioner’s remarks, confirming the monarch’s good health.
Gbenga Ayoade, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, said that the reports were false, stating, “Baba just finished eating amala. He is hale and healthy. It is just a rumour.”
Ayoade further clarified that there had been no medical emergencies requiring the traditional ruler to be flown out of Ibadan, affirming, “Baba is still in Ibadan. He was not flown anywhere. He is doing very fine.”
Oba Olakulehin, who received the staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, is set to celebrate his 90th birthday on July 5. [With Sentinel report]
