Oyelade’s death, great loss to Ibadan — Ayorinde

The Agbaofin of Ibadanland, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, has described the death of Ekefa Olubadan, Senior Chief Lateef Oyelade, as a great loss to Ibadan’s social, religious and traditional systems, adding that he would be greatly missed by all for his outstanding contributions to the society.

Oyelade, the Babaasale Musulumi of Ibadanland was until his demise a member of the Otun line of the Olubadan ascendancy system where he rose to the exalted level of Ekefa, just a step before becoming a High Chief and member of the Olubadan Advisory Council.

Ayorinde in a statement stated that the late Senior Chief lived by example, adding that Ibadanland has lost an amazing and progressive man.

He said “I received the news of the transition of Senior Chief Oyelade, the Babaasale Musulumi of Ibadanland, with sadness. His demise has robbed us of his wisdom and wise counseling. He never withheld his deep insights and rich perspectives from those who sought his guidance.

“Even though he was much older in age he related with us in such a courteous manner. He was extremely civilised and appropriate in his demeanour and countenance.

“Chief Oyelade was a very highly regarded Senior Chief of Ibadanland. He worked assiduously for the peace and stability of not only Ibadanland, Oyo State and Yorubaland but also the entire country.

“He will be greatly missed by all. His contributions to society were outstanding in all ramifications. A peaceful and God-fearing man who lived by example. As recently as last month, we exchanged pleasantries.

“He was unable to attend my installation as Agba Ofin of Ibadanland as his son was getting married in Lagos the next day and he had to travel out of Ibadan. We promised to catch up on other matters affecting our great metropolitan city and our dear State. Little did I suspect that his time to depart this side of the divide had come.

“I pray for the repose of his soul and for his family to receive the fortitude to bear their loss as only the Almighty God can give them succour. I commiserate with H.E. Governor Seyi Makinde and his Imperial Majesty The Olubadan of Ibadanland over the demise of this patriot, giant and great son of Ibadan,” he said.

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