Just In: Revered Yoruba Monarch, Olubadan Is Dead

Respected Yoruba traditional ruler, Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, is dead.

The monarch reportedly joined his ancestors in the early hours of Sunday, January 2.

Report has it that the monarch died at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Oyo state.

His death was confirmed by palace sources who pleaded anonymity.

However, when contacted, the monarch’s aides neither confirmed his death nor denied it.

“Even if he is dead, it is the governor that will announce it,” one of his media aides said when contacted on the telephone.

Another aide said in Yoruba, “You don’t hear bad news from a priest,” and cut the phone.
Efforts to reach Taiwo Adisa, media aide to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, proved abortive as of the time of filing this report.

Adetunji, who was crowned the 41st Olubadan on March 4, 2017, was born on August 26, 1928.
He was the first of 17 children of his parents.