By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
Ibadan, the cultural capital of the Yoruba nation, is once again plunged into mourning following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away barely a year after his coronation.
At 90 years old, his reign, like that of his immediate predecessor, was short-lived. This marks the third Olubadan in less than a decade — a disturbing trend that begs the question: Why does Ibadan continue to crown men at the twilight of their lives?
The Olubadan succession system, famed for its orderliness in Yoruba land, is based on seniority. But while it is a relatively peaceful model compared to the often chaotic processes in other kingdoms, it seems to have become a deathbed honor rather than a throne of impact.
Oba Olakulehin received his staff of office in July 2024, just months after the death of Oba Moshood Balogun, who also reigned for only two years. Before them was Oba Saliu Adetunji, who also spent a brief period on the throne before passing away in 2022.
While tradition is important, is it not time to reexamine a succession process that consistently results in monarchs too old to fully enjoy or effectively wield the powers of the throne?
These kings spend most of their reigns battling health challenges, making hospital visits, and preparing for transitions rather than championing development or cultural revival.
Ibadan deserves an Olubadan who is vibrant, visionary, and capable of being a bridge between the wisdom of the past and the demands of a dynamic present. But instead, the city finds itself in a revolving door of obituaries and installations — a cycle of grief that weakens the institution and its potential for leadership.
If the system continues to elevate age over energy, Ibadan will remain trapped in a loop of royal burials and ceremonial enthronements. It is time to critically evaluate this succession model. Tradition must evolve when it hinders progress, and Ibadanland must prioritize leadership capacity over age-based entitlement.
How many more revered but frail monarchs must we mourn before meaningful change is considered? Oba Olakulehin’s death, though not unexpected, should serve as a wake-up call. A throne meant for service and legacy must not become a retirement home for the elderly.
