CITIZENS COMPASS —The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, has described the death of Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun Ali, Okunmade II, as a monumental loss to Yoruba Land, Ibadan Land and the traditional institution.
The CEO who is also the Aare Apesinola of Ibadan land has commiserated with the bereaved family who joined his ancestors after two years of ascending the throne of his forefathers.
Aare Adetola described Oba Balogun as an embodiment of peace and a rallying point for all Ibadan indigenes. His cosmopolitan nature and his exposure have helped place Ibadan on a high pedestal.
A condolence statement by Aare Adetola reads; “The death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, HIM Oba Lekan Balogun Ali, Okunmade II is a monumental loss to us, Ibadan Land and the traditional institution most especially in Yoruba Land.
As a former lawmaker and scholar, he served Ibadan diligently and treated everyone who crossed his path with fairness. He is a pan-Nigerian who sees everyone as one entity and never discriminates.
We have lost a big fish in the river and it will take time for us to see someone of his nature. He is a refined gentleman, very articulate with an embodiment of knowledge and understanding of the culture and tradition of Ibadan. He wore his royalty on his chest like a badge of honour.
We will miss him dearly. I pray Almighty God will forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljana Firdaus. Once again, my condolences to Ibadanland”
