The Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Olubunmi Isioye-Dada, has passed away.
A palace source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the monarch’s death in a telephone conversation with The PUNCH on Friday.
According to the source, Oba Isioye-Dada died at his residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, after a brief illness. The source added that a delegation of Omo Oye had already proceeded to the late chief’s home following news of his passing.
Osi Balogun of Ibadanland is one of the key chieftaincy titles within the traditional hierarchy of the ancient city.
His death is expected to trigger a series of promotions within the Balogun line of the Ibadan chieftaincy system, affecting several chiefs and high chiefs, including the governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Senator Sharafadeen Ali.
In line with the traditional succession structure, and subject to the approval of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Ali is expected to advance from the position of Ekaarun Balogun to Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland.
Similarly, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin is expected to move from Ekerin Balogun to the rank of Asipa Balogun of Ibadanland as the succession process unfolds.
