Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, said on Friday that the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun (Alli Okunmade II), was a highly intelligent king and a likeable person.
He made this known at the late king's Alli Iwo compound in Ibadan, the state capital, following the burial prayer for the deceased.
Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Suleiman Olanrewaju, mentioned that the late king left behind a legacy and fond memories of the developments he brought to Ibadanland.
In addition, the governor, represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, pledged that the state government would ensure that the late Oba Balogun receives a respectable burial.
“We can describe the late monarch in many ways. First, he was one of the few highly intelligent individuals to become Olubadan of Ibadanland. He was very educated and an intellectual. He approached matters intellectually, and for that reason, we know that we have lost a monarch.
“Secondly, he was a noteworthy politician. He served as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 1999 to 2003, and he rose through the ranks to become the Olubadan of Ibadanland. Moving forward, his legacies and memories will guide us, not only in Ibadanland but in the state and Nigeria.
“He was a likeable man, as we all know. He was very cheerful and friendly, and we pray to Almighty Allah that he will meet His creator in peace,” he said.
The governor assured the people that the late monarch would be honored by the state, affirming that the state government would be fully involved in any programs that will ensure he is given a fitting burial.
“Let me assure you on behalf of His Excellency that whatever it will take to give the late monarch a fitting burial, the state government will do it. For now, the Muslim rites have been performed, and we believe that, moving forward, whatever program that will follow will have the involvement of the state government,” he assured.
Makinde also expressed the confidence that with a smooth transition in the Olubadan Chieftaincy System, the next Olubadan will step in and take the leadership role to move Ibadanland to its next level.
“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 the late Oba Balogun dropped it,” he added.
