From Bola Ogunlayi, Ibadan
History was made in the ancient Ibadan city on Friday as the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun recieved the Staff of Office from the State Governor, Engr.Seyi Makinde amidsts pomp and pageantry.
The setting was the historic Mapo Hall witnessing a creme de la creme of the society and jubilation from the heavily screened and fairly controlled mammoth crowd.
The new Olubadan has adopted ,Ali Okunmade 2 as his full title,his royalty lineage
The event was attended by the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In attendance were governors of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi; Kano State, Abdulahi Ganduje; and Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun. Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki; his Osun counterpart,Gboyega Oyetola and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented.
Former governors ,Olusegun Mimiko and Olagunsoye Oyinlola were also at the ceremony.
Traditional rulers at the event include the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III; and the Olugbo of Ugbo Nla kingdom, Oba Obateru Akinruntan.
In his speech, Makinde expressed satisfaction that the crisis that rocked the Olubadan chieftain system was completely over.
He urged Ibadan people to support the new Monarch in his new traditional duties.
Highlights of the ceremony were the cultural displays by indigenous musicians,groups and title heads as well as the cognomen of the new Olubadan by the well wishers.
Festivities and colourful supports came from Marketers from major markets in the city and closing down of major routes leading to the historical Mapo Hall, venue of the epoch event.
