Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has visited the family of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland one week after the passing of Oba Moshood Olalekan Balogun.
DAILY POST recalls that the 42nd Olubadan passed on March 14, 2024.
The monarch breathed his last breath at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, at the age of 81.
The monarch was buried last Friday, according to Islamic injunctions.
The governor, who is the chief mourner, visited the family of the late monarch at the Alarere private residence of the traditional ruler on Thursday.
Governor Makinde, while addressing the family, said the deceased, who represented Oyo Central Senatorial District in the Senate between 1999 and 2003, played roles that ensured the traditional system did not fall apart.
“When Baba was admitted to the hospital, I was in touch with the doctors. I told them that they should try their best to keep Baba alive. I believe they gave Kabiyesi the utmost care in that situation. But we can only propose; God disposes,” he said.
The governor added: “A lot of people may not know how close we used to be. Our relationship was beyond politics. But let me say that this is not the time for us to mourn but to celebrate the life of Baba and his contribution to Ibadanland, the traditional institution and Oyo State.
“He died at a time when he had brought peace and stability to the traditional institution in Ibadanland, and I was looking forward to the continued stability. But as humans, we can only plan. The final call belongs to the Almighty.”
He further said that the state government had already approved funds for the Fidau prayers for the late Oba and would also do the needful at the appropriate time for a state burial.
