New Olubadan of Ibadan, Lekan Balogun Installed

Senator Lekan Balogun was on Friday crowned as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The official installation of the paramount ruler of Ibadaand held at Mapo Hall in the Oyo State capital.

Governor Seyi Makinde presented the staff and instrument of office to Oba Lekan Balogun as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The governor made the presentation at about 12: 30pm on Friday.

Reading the relevant law backing the presentation, Governor Makinde said that the event was in line with the laws of the state.

Speaking after receiving the staff, the new Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun thanked the governor for the gesture and promised that he would not let Ibadan and himself down with the new task at hand.

He commended the Vice President, former vice President Abubakar Atiku, Ooni Ogunwusi, Alaafin Adeyemi, Oba Akinruntan and other dignitaries for their support.

The new Olubadan adorned white crown and wine traditional attire popularly known as ‘Aso Oke’, and ascended the throne in grand style to usher in a new dispensation in the town.

Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde, presented the staff of office to Oba Balogun, Okumade II, in the presence of prominent traditional and religious leaders from various parts of the country, as well as hundreds of residents of the state.

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar were also among the political leaders who graced the occasion.

Oba Balogun ascended the throne to succeed the 41st Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, whose reign lasted almost six years.

The late monarch, who was crowned on March 4, 2016, died two months ago at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan. He was aged 93 years.
-Kunle Bakare