Oba Bakre, the Agura of Gbagura and June 12 Hero’s Kinsman, Dies at 61

Sade AdewaleJune 15, 2023

1 minute read

The people of Gbagura in Ogun State are in mourning as their traditional ruler, Oba Babajide Sabur Bakre, the Agura of Gbagura, has passed away at 61. The monarch died on Wednesday at a Lagos hospital, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

A source in Gbagura told Daily Post that the death of Oba Bakre was a rude shock to his subjects, considering his age and years on the throne. He said the monarch was loved and respected by all for his peace and unity initiatives.

The news of Oba Bakre’s death was announced by Chief Razaq Obe, the Administrative Secretary to the Agura Palace, through a message from the Osi of Egbaland and Balogun of Ibadan Township Gbagura, Abeokuta.

He said: “His Royal Majesty Oba Dr Saburee Babajide Bakre Jamolu 11, the Agura of Gbagura has joined His ancestors today 14th June 2023. May Kabiyesi’s soul rest in perfect peace.”

Oba Bakre, a retired Customs officer, was crowned on May 21, 2019, by former Governor Ibikunle Amosun. He was the ninth Agura of Gbagura in Abeokuta. Gbagura is the hometown of Moshood Abiola, the June 12, 1993 presidential election winner.

The Agura of Gbagura is the traditional ruler of this subsection of the Egba, and under his jurisdiction are the rulers of the 72 townships that each bear the title Baale. The Agura of Gbagura has a status as a major Oba in Egba Traditional council and Ogun state Council of Obas.

Oba Bakre’s body has been returned to Abeokuta for burial rites. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late monarch.