We’ll Give Late Olubadan Befitting Burial

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has described the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, as a cerebral monarch and an amiable personality.

He made this statement at the late monarch’s Alli Iwo compound in Ibadan, the state capital, following the funeral prayer for the deceased.

Makinde, represented by his deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, also stated that the state government would ensure Oba Dr. Balogun receives a fitting burial.

He noted that the late Oba left legacies and beautiful memories in terms of development attracted to Ibadanland and that the government will leverage the legacies to chart a greater course for the city and the state.

“We can describe the late monarch in many ways. First, he was one of the few cerebral individuals to become Olubadan of Ibadanland. He was very educated and an intellectual. He took issues intellectually, and for that reason, we know that we have lost a monarch.

“Secondly, he was a politician of note. He was a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria between 1999 and 2003, and he climbed the ladder to become the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Moving forward, his legacies and memories will chart a course for us, not only in Ibadanland but in the state and Nigeria.

“He was an amiable man, as we all know. He was very jovial and friendly, and we pray to Almighty Allah that he will meet His creator in peace,” he said.

The governor assured that the late Oba Dr. Balogun will be honored by the state, stating that the state government will be fully involved in any programs that will ensure he receives a fitting burial.

“Let me assure you on behalf of His Excellency that whatever it will take to give the late monarch a befitting burial, the state government will do it.

“For now, the Muslim rites have been done and we believe that, moving forward, whatever programme that will follow will have the involvement of the state government,” he added.

Governor Makinde also expressed confidence that the next Olubadan, with the seamless Olubadan Chieftaincy System, will step in and lead Ibadanland to its next level.

He said: “Now, the ascension to the throne of Olubadan has always been peaceful and we pray that whoever is coming in as Olubadan of Ibadanland, will take the mantle from where Oba Balogun dropped it.”