15th March, 2024
By Ayorinde Oluokun
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Olalekan Balogun, has passed away on Thursday evening few days after clocking two years on the throne.
Dele Ogunsola, media aide to the 82-year-old Olubadan Balogun confirmed his passage to journalists.
According to him, Oba Balogun died at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan few hours after admission at the Hospital.
Oba Balogun ascended the throne on March 11, 2022 after the demise of his predecessor, Oba Saliu Adetunji.
Oyo governor, Seyi Makinde, installed Olalekan Balogun as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Makinde presented the staff of office to Balogun during the ceremony which took place on Friday at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the state capital.
The Governor had on February 14 approved Balogun as the 42nd Olubadan
Reflecting on his life during his 81st birthday in 2023, Oba Balogun said he has had a fulfilled life and appreciated God Almighty for all his achievements in life.
“For me to be of this age, it is only God who has been there for me. I can remember the time I was attacked and shot in the stomach by armed robbers at Challenge area in Ibadan here, I was operated upon and survived it,” he stated.
On his aspirations for Ibadan land, Oba Balogun said it was his dream to see a bigger, peaceful and prosperous Ibadan land.
He urged all sons and daughters of Ibadan land to continue doing their best for the growth and development of the ancient city.
Oba Balogun was born on Oct. 18, 1942.