His Imperial Majesty, the late Oba Dr Akinloye Iyanda Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan land, has been consigned to his final resting place at the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter’s Cemetery in Ibadan on 8 August 2025, following his meritorious retirement as a Major from the Nigerian Army.
The late Major Oba Akinloye Iyanda (Rtd) was born in Ibadan on July 5, 1935, and hailed from Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. His educational journey started at Church Missionary Society School, Ibadan, from 1946 to 1948, and later Islamic School, Ibadan, from 1949 to 1951.
He proceeded to Saint Paul’s School, Yemetu-Ibadan, from 1952 to 1953, obtaining his Standard Six Certificate.
The late Oba attended Technical Institute, Yaba, from 1955 to 1959, acquiring his General Certificate of Education. Additionally, he obtained an Ordinary Diploma in Building and a Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering from Yaba College of Technology in 1963 and 1967, respectively.
He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army on 29 July 1970 as a lieutenant and served in the Corps of Engineers, advancing to the rank of major on 30 April 1973; after a distinguished career, he retired on 1 October 1979 and subsequently became the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan land.
The late monarch of Ibadan was a distinguished military officer known for his character and commitment to duty.
He served with diligence and professionalism, holding various appointments during his military career, including Troops Commander at 2 Field Engineer Regiment and Commanding Officer roles at 31 Maintenance Regiment and 34 Maintenance Regiment.
He also served as Staff Officer for Civil Engineering at 43 Engineer Brigade. Following the passing of late Oba Lekan Balogun, he ascended the throne as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan land on July 12, 2024.
The late Oba Dr. Akinloye Iyanda Owolabi Olakulehin’s selfless service to the nation was honored through a military tradition burial ceremony.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Oyo State Executive Governor Engineer Seyi Makinde, government officials, and revered Royal Fathers.
The General Officer Commanding 2 Division NA, Maj Gen OG Onubogu, heads of other security agencies, Principal Staff Officers from Headquarters 2 Division, senior officers both serving and retired, the deceased’s immediate family, and friends and sympathizers were also present.
Lagos Panorama
