By Ayomide Otitoju
The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was laid to rest on Monday in a private ceremony at his residence in Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The revered monarch’s death, announced by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, came just hours after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, casting a somber mood across the nation. Oba Adetona died at the age of 91 after 65 years on the throne.
Dignitaries, traditional rulers, political figures, and citizens gathered in Ijebu-Ode to pay their final respects. The Islamic Janazah prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Sheikh Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo. In honour of the monarch, markets were closed across the town as directed by the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Chairman, Dare Alebiosu.
President Bola Tinubu was represented by a delegation that included the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
Among those present were Governor Abiodun; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Ogun State governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel; business tycoon Aliko Dangote; and PDP 2023 governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu.
In his tribute, Governor Abiodun described the late king as “a dependable father and a selfless leader,” recalling his public and private support during political challenges. “In appreciation of what Kabiyesi did for me, I named the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road in his honour,” the governor said.
Otunba Gbenga Daniel commended Oba Adetona’s courage and candour, calling for the realisation of Ijebu State — a cause the monarch championed for decades. Former Governor Osoba noted the Awujale’s transformative impact on education and youth development in the region.
Aliko Dangote, reflecting on the monarch’s legacy, said, “Baba lived a fulfilled life. He was a man of integrity and wisdom, respected not just in Ijebu but across Nigeria.”
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 26 after studying accountancy in the United Kingdom. He was the 50th Awujale from the Anikinaiya Royal House. Throughout his reign, he maintained ties with national leaders and was known for his advocacy of religious freedom in burial rites for traditional rulers.
In May 2024, President Tinubu honoured Oba Adetona with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) in recognition of his 90th birthday and lifelong service.
His death signals the end of a significant chapter in Nigerian traditional leadership, but his influence — marked by cultural unity, fearless leadership, and unshakable principles — will continue to inspire generations to come.
