Markets in Ibadanland have been closed in honour of the late Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who was laid to rest today at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.
Recall that Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, passed away on July 7, 2025 just two days after marking his 90th birthday. His burial on Friday brought the ancient city to a standstill as traders and artisans joined in paying final respects.
The Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abass, had on Thursday directed that all markets be closed from 5 a.m. to 12 noon on Friday.
According to him, the gesture was a mark of honour for a monarch who devoted his reign to peace, development, and the welfare of Ibadan’s commercial sector.
“Traders and artisans in Ibadan will continue to remember the late monarch for maintaining peace and creating an enabling environment for marketers in the ancient city,” Abass stated.
He also urged market leaders across the city to enforce compliance with the closure directive, stressing the importance of unity and respect for tradition.
The atmosphere in Ibadan was solemn as residents trooped out in traditional attire to bid farewell to a king many described as humble and visionary.
