Prominent son of Ibadanland, Hon. Farouk Umar Arisekola-Alao has expressed shock and sadness at the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Olalekan Balogun (Alli Okunmade II). In a statement released by him, he mourned the revered monarch.
Farouk Arisekola-Alao described the late Olubadan as a father with deep wisdom and revolutionary ideas who is always concerned with the growth and development of Ibadan and this is much evident in the ever rich culture and tradition of the land.
Hon Arisekola-Alao also acknowledged the spirited efforts of the late Olubadan through his many efforts in the elevation of the Olubadan to His Imperial Majesty.
“The death of our king, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Olaekan Balogun (Alli Okunmade II) comes as a rude shock to me and is definitely a huge loss to Ibadanland. His Imperial Majesty was a man of deep wisdom, wide exposure and a great king who had revolutionary ideas. He strived for the growth and development of Ibadanland by ensuring that glamour was added to the rich culture and tradition of Ibadanland. I can remember vividly how he fought for the elevation of the Olubadan from His Royal Majesty to Imperial Majesty. He lived his life pushing for Ibadan to move forward. He would be sorely missed but we take solace in the many legacies he was able to create in such a time as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.” Arisekola-Alao stated.
“I pray Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdous and comfort us the good people of Ibadanland and Oyo State.” Hon. Arisekola-Alao concluded.