The Olubadan-designate, ObaRashidi Ladoja, has deferred his return to Ibadan, Oyo State, until July 28, following the commencement of the traditional 21-day mourning period for the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, July 7, after a brief illness at a private hospital in the Jericho area of Ibadan. In line with Ibadan’s long-standing tradition, a 21-day mourning period began on Tuesday, July 8.
A palace source told The newsmen that Oba Ladoja made the decision to stay away from Ibadan to fully observe the mourning, avoiding any semblance of celebration that could be associated with his presence.
“He believes in mourning with the bereaved and celebrating only when the time is appropriate,” the source said. “His presence in town may trigger early celebrations, which he wants to avoid out of respect for the late monarch.”
In his absence, Oba Amidu Ajibade, the Ekerin Olubadan, and Akeem Adewoyin, the Ekerin Balogun, have been instructed to reopen the Olubadan Palace at Oke-Aremo to receive sympathisers on his behalf.
When contacted for confirmation, Adeola Oloko, media aide to Oba Ladoja, said, “I don’t know when Baba Ladoja will be around.”
