On Wednesday, the Senate decided to name a committee room after the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun.
Oba Balogun, who was 81 years old, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, two years after becoming the king on March 11, 2022.
The Senate's decision to honor the late monarch came after a motion was put forward by Senator Sharafadeen Ali (APC Oyo South).
Ali, in his motion, informed the Senate that the late Olubadan was an outstanding leader, a community builder, and a dedicated politician, who served as a Senator from 1999 to 2003.
He stated, "The late Olubadan was a peaceful man and guardian of the Yoruba people's culture and values."
The two other senators from Oyo State, Yinus Akintunde (Central) and Addulfai Buhari (North), also spoke about how the late monarch positively influenced the lives of those he encountered.
In particular, Buhari mentioned that the book "Arrogance of Power," authored by the late monarch and given to him in 2003, helped him greatly in staying connected with the people who elected him into the National Assembly over the years.
The Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP Benue South), also praised the late monarch's virtues in his contribution to the motion.
Following discussions, the Senate agreed to all the resolutions proposed, including the immortalization of the late monarch by naming a Senate Committee room after him.
The Senate also paid tribute to the late Olubadan by observing a minute of silence in his honor.
During the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged Senator Abdulfatai Buhari to provide copies of "Arrogance of Power," written by the deceased, to all Senators to guide them in their endeavors.
