By Bello Hamza
The Aare Akinrogun of Ibadanland and former Chief of Army Staff (COAS),Lt Gen Yusuf Buratai (CFR), paid tribute to the late 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II.
Buratai praised Oba Balogun as a detribalized Nigerian who dedicated his life to serving humanity, the nation, and the people of Ibadanland.
He expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s passing, calling it a significant loss.
Buratai delivered his remarks over the weekend, at the Liberty Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State, during a civic reception organized by the Oyo State Government in honor of the late Olubadan.
He described Oba Balogun as a responsible king committed to promoting unity and national cohesion.
“We have lost a friendly, jovial, compassionate, and loving monarch,” Buratai lamented.
He also shared his pride in being honored with the chieftaincy title of Aare Akinrogun of Ibadanland by the late Olubadan, highlighting the respect and honor he received from the monarch.
Earlier, Ambassador Buratai paid a courtesy visit to the family of another late Olubadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji. During the visit, he was warmly received by the families and the Oloris of the late Oba Adetunji.
Buratai explained that his visit to Ibadan was for the final burial ceremony of Oba Balogun, and he felt it necessary to also visit the family of Oba Adetunji.
Additionally, the Tukur Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO), organized a three-day free medical outreach in honor of the late Oba Balogun.
Ambassador Buratai also prayed for the success of the new Olubadan and urged him to build on the legacies of his predecessors.
Buratai’s entourage to Ibadan included notable figures such as the Olowu of Kuta, Oba Hammed Oyelude Makama (CON); HRM Adekemi Omorinbola, the Regent of Asin, Iwaro-Oka; Major General Bulama Biu (rtd); Commodore Teidi (rtd), President of the 29th Regular Course; Brigadier General Muazu; Colonel Emmanuel Adegbola (rtd), Garrison Commander of Division 2; Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi; Alhaji Ibrahim Danfulani, the Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi; Mr. Femi Oyewale, Publisher of Sahara Weekly; Barrister Lateef Onijo, and others.
