Olubadan: Traditional drummers, praise singers, others formally dump late Oba Olakulehin’s residence

The Gbobaniyi Olubadan of Ibadanland, a revered group of traditional drummers, chanters, trumpeters, and praise singers have officially signed out from the residence of the late 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin.

This group, known for daily praises and eulogies of the Olubadan, other traditional rulers, chiefs, and palace visitors, performed their final eulogy at Olakulehin’s Alalubosa estate residence before formally concluding their service there.

Oba Olakulehin, who hailed from Ita Baale Ori Okiti in Ibadan North East, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, and was buried on Friday, August 8, 2025. It is a longstanding tradition for the Gbobaniyi Olubadan to ceremonially sign out from the residence of the deceased ruler before moving to serve the incoming Olubadan.

Mr. Taiwo Ademola Peter, a member of the Gbobaniyi group, confirmed their signing out ritual, stating, “Today is our signing out from the late Olubadan’s house at Alalubosa estate as we perform our rite as Gbobaniyi Olubadan of Ibadanland.”

The group is now preparing to resume their duties at the residence of the Olubadan-designate, former Oyo State Governor Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Ladoja, expected to become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, hails from Isale Osi in Ibadan South West.

Although currently away from Ibadan, he is anticipated to return soon to his residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, where the Gbobaniyi will officially welcome him.