The Olubadan-in-council, led by High Chief Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Mogaji’s in Ibadan land, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland who also the owner of Ilaji Hotel and Sport Resort, Akanran, Ibadan, Engr. Chief Dotun Sanusi has
mourned and the demise of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Mohood Olalekan Ishola Balogun, Alli Okunmade II.
Others are: Prof Kayode Adebowale, Vice Chancellor (VC), University of Ibadan (UI), Babaloja General of Oyo state Alhaji Yekini Abass, Iyaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaja Sarat Konibaje , President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barr Niyi Ajewole.
Recalled that the late monarch, who reigned for two years, joined his ancestors at the age of 81 on Thursday night at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, after a brief illness was given a befitting lying in state and afternoon of tribute at Mapo hall on Friday before he was laid to rest at his Aliwo ancestral family home.
The Ibadan Chiefs described the passing of the monarch as a monumental loss not only for the people of Ibadan, but for entire Oyo State.
A special tribute was equally presented by the Chairman Ibadan South East local Govt, Hon. Emmanuel Alawode Oluwole.
In their separate remarks, the CCII President General, Barr. Chief Niyi Ajewole, Babaloja General of Oyo state, Alhaji Y. K Abass, Iyaloja General of Oyo state, Alhaja Sarata Aduke Konibaje all described the demise of Oba Lekan Balogun as a monumental loss to Ibadanland, Oyo state and Nigeria, praying for to God Almighty to grants him eternal rest.
The Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiy Agbotomokekere led Muslim faithful to prayed for the late monarch after a special Lying-in-state has been successfully held for him at Mapo Hall before he was later interned at his Aliwo family Compound.
Dignitaries at the lying in state and afternoon of tributes event include the Olubadan-in-council led by High Chief Rashid Ladoja, Olugbon of Orile Igbo, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, and the junior brother of the deceased, Dr. Sen Kola Balogun, the Vice Chancellor , University of Ibadan, Prof Kayode Adebowale among others.
A statement jointly signed by the President of Ibadan Mogaji’s, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori and ICPI Coordinator, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade expressed heartfelt condolences and sympathises with the family, friends, as well as subjects of the late Olubadan.
The statement noted that the news of Oba Balogun’s transition to join his ancestors at the age of 82 has sent shockwaves through the traditional and political spheres of Ibadanland.
According to the statement, Balogun’s relatively short but impactful reign marked a period of unity, progress and community development.
“We join the people of Ibadanland in mourning the loss of a beloved monarch and leader. We stand in solidarity with the community in honouring the legacy and contributions of Oba Balogun.
The statement emphasised the enduring impact of his leadership and the indelible mark he left on the cultural tapestry of Ibadan, saying Balogun’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many.
The expression of shock and sorrow by the Ibadan Chiefs, echoed the sentiments of a community united in grief over the loss of a revered monarch.
The statement said that Oba Olalekan Balogun’s memory would forever be enshrined in the annals of Ibadan’s history.
The statement reflected a sense of shared grief and reverence for the late Olubadan, who embodied wisdom, grace and dedication to the welfare of his people.
The statement however underscored the deep respect and admiration he held for the late Olubadan, recognising his pivotal role in upholding the rich cultural heritage as well as traditions of Ibadan.