The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, has described the death of Olubadan, HIM Senator Oba Lekan Balogun Ali, Okunmade II, as a monumental loss to Yoruba Land, Ibadan Land and the traditional institution.

Read also: Olubadan, Lekan Balogun dies at 81

Aare Adetola, also the Aare Apesinola of Ibadan land, has commiserated with a deceased 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 honor. We will miss him dearly. I pray Almighty God will forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljana Firdaus. Once again, my condolences to Ibadanland”