By OLUSEYE OJO
Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is currently enthralled, as the stage is set for the coronation and installation of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at the Mapo Hall Arcade, in the heart of the city.
The ceremony is about to commence amid watertight security. Dignitaries from all walks of life are already seated to witness the historic event.
Serving and former political office holders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, leaders of thoughts and opinions, are among important personalities at the venue.
The Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, as gathered, has begun the mandatory traditional rites at the Labosinde Quarters. He is expected to be crowned Ose Meji Quarters and thereafter, he will proceed to the Mapo Hall Arcade to receive staff of office from Governor Makinde.
Already seated are the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, who is representing President Bola Tinubu, on the occasion, as well as the deputy governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Adebayo Lawal; deputy governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi, representing Governor Ademola Adeleke; and deputy governor of Ondo State, Olayide Adelami, representing Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa.
Also in attendance are two former deputy governors of Oyo State, Chief Moses Adeyemo, and Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarunmi.
Former Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, Sunday Ola-Makinde; former military administrator of Oyo State, Oladayo Popoola; wife of former governor of Oyo State, Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja; Honourable Abass Adigun, representing South East/North East federal constituency in the 10th National Assembly; and President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Alhaji Ajeniyi Ajewole, are also among the dignitaries in attendance.
The roll call also comprised a former Minister of Power and Steel, Elder Wole Oyelese; and Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, among other luminaries.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, arrived the venue of the installation at 11:30am, in company of the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Makanjuola Akinola, as well as the leaderahip of Oyo State Muslim Community.
The arrival of Governor Seyi Makinde, who will present staff of office to the new Olubadan, is being expected at the time of filing this report at 12:31pm. The programme will begin on his arrival.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of Nigerian Army in Ibadan, Commissioner of Police in the state, Director of Directorate of State Service (DSS) are among service commanders.