Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, passed away on Sunday, at the age of 91, just hours after the death of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Ogun State government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, confirmed the monarch’s passing, describing it as “a monumental loss to the state and the nation at large” that marks “the end of an era in Nigeria’s traditional leadership.”
The Alarmee reports that Oba Adetona, born on May 10, 1934, ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, reigning for over 64 years as one of Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers.
“He was installed as Awujale at the young age of 26,” Governor Abiodun noted, adding that “his dedication to the welfare of his people was evident in his efforts to foster educational advancements, healthcare improvements, and economic growth.”
Under his leadership, Ijebuland became a hub of cultural preservation, with the Ojude Oba festival gaining international recognition as a symbol of Yoruba heritage.
President Bola Tinubu expressed profound grief, stating, “One of Nigeria’s most outstanding, foremost, and revered traditional rulers, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, has joined his ancestors after over 65 remarkable years on the throne.”
He described the monarch’s death as a “double pain” due to its coincidence with Buhari’s passing, emphasizing Adetona’s role as “an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile.”
A prince of Ijebu, Adedoyin Alatishe, mourned on X, writing, “Baami Ogbagba agbatewole 💔. Erin wo. Omo anikilaya saagbu,” reflecting the deep sorrow in Ijebuland.
Former Delta State Governor James Ibori called Adetona “a rare gem,” noting his contributions to “secular and Islamic scholarship” and “unrivaled wisdom in royal stewardship.”
Oba Adetona’s reign was marked by significant milestones, including surviving a 1983 deposition attempt halted by the military coup led by Buhari, which fostered their enduring friendship.
“Buhari’s intervention, though not targeted at the deposition, inadvertently preserved Adetona’s reign,” historical accounts note.
His leadership transformed Ijebuland into a center of commerce and cultural resilience, with initiatives like the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University standing as testaments to his legacy.
Governor Abiodun highlighted Adetona’s role as “a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development,” adding that “Ijebuland witnessed tremendous cultural renaissance, infrastructural growth, and economic advancement” under his guidance. The governor called for calm, stating, “The legacies Oba Adetona left behind call for celebration.”
