Late Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin Biography: Personal Life
Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin, born on July 5, 1935, in the serene Okugbaja village, Ita Baale near Akanran in what is now Ibadan North East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria, was a revered Nigerian monarch and the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan. He was born to Pa Ishola-Okin Owolabi and Madam Adunola Aweni Ope Ajilaran Omoyoade Owolabi, a family rooted in the cultural and communal traditions of Ibadan.
A devout Christian, Olakulehin was a family man, married with children, though specific details about his wife and children remain private, reflecting his preference for keeping personal matters out of the public eye. His upbringing in a modest yet culturally rich environment shaped his disciplined and community-oriented outlook, which would later define his leadership as a monarch, soldier, politician, and entrepreneur.
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Late Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin Biography: Education and Early Career
Olakulehin’s educational journey began in Ibadan, where he attended St. James Primary School in Oke Akaran and an Islamic School in Odoiye before completing his primary education at St. Peter Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan. Demonstrating an early inclination toward education and service, he briefly taught at a primary school in Wakajaiye, Akobo, Ibadan, before pursuing vocational training in printing and artwork at Yaba Technical Institute in Lagos. His thirst for knowledge led him to further his studies at Yaba College of Technology, where he earned an Ordinary National Diploma and a Higher National Diploma in Building. This academic foundation in technical and vocational disciplines equipped him with skills that would later underpin his entrepreneurial ventures.
Military Career
In 1970, Olakulehin joined the Nigerian Army through a Direct Short Service Commission, starting as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers. His military career was marked by dedication and leadership, as he served in various capacities across Nigeria, including as Commanding Officer of the Army Maintenance Regiment in Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos. Rising steadily through the ranks, he attained the rank of Major before retiring on October 1, 1979. His military service was characterized by discipline, strategic thinking, and a commitment to national development, qualities that would later resonate in his roles as a traditional leader and politician.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Following his retirement from the military, Olakulehin transitioned into entrepreneurship, leveraging his technical education and leadership experience. He founded FAKOL Nigeria Ltd, a construction contracting firm that contributed to infrastructure development in Ibadan. Additionally, he established Olakulehin Press, later rebranded as Solid Prints, which became a notable printing business in the city. His entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of FAKOL Bakery, further cementing his reputation as a visionary businessman who contributed to the economic growth of Ibadan. These ventures showcased his ability to diversify his expertise and create sustainable enterprises that supported the local community.
Political Career
Olakulehin’s foray into politics began in 1992 when he contested and won a seat in the House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), representing Ibadan South East Constituency. His tenure in the National Assembly was distinguished by his appointment as Chairman of the House Committee on the Nigerian Army, a role that aligned with his military background and allowed him to influence policies related to national defense and security. His political career was marked by a commitment to public service, reflecting the same dedication he exhibited in his military and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Ascension to Olubadan
Olakulehin’s journey to becoming the Olubadan of Ibadanland, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious traditional stools, began in 1983 when he was appointed the Mogaji of the Ige Olakulehin Family of Ita-Baale Olugbode, Ibadan. This role marked his entry into the traditional leadership hierarchy of Ibadan. His steady rise through the chieftaincy ranks saw him become the Balogun of Ibadanland, one of the two most senior high chiefs, positioning him as a key figure in the Olubadan succession line. On July 12, 2024, he was crowned the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan, succeeding his predecessor in a historic ceremony that celebrated his decades of service to the community. His reign, though brief, was marked by efforts to promote unity, development, and cultural preservation in Ibadanland.
Legacy and Death
Olakulehin’s reign as Olubadan lasted until his passing on July 7, 2025, just two days after his 90th birthday. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to service, leadership, and community development. As a monarch, soldier, politician, and entrepreneur, Olakulehin left an indelible mark on Ibadan and Nigeria at large. His contributions to education, military service, business, and traditional governance continue to inspire generations. His legacy as a Christian, family man, and leader who bridged modernity with tradition endures in the hearts of the people of Ibadanland and beyond.
Disclaimer
The information in this article was curated from Wikipedia. All details cannot be independently verified by Daily News 24 or its editorial team
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