•Late Oba Sikiru Adetona
Barely hours after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari was announced, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, also passed away at the age of 91.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, confirmed the monarch’s death in a statement issued from Abeokuta, the state capital, yesterday.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland. Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general,” Governor Abiodun stated.
The governor noted that the monarch’s death came as the country was still reeling from the loss of Buhari, 82, who died earlier the same day in a London hospital.
“It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, died in the United Kingdom,” Abiodun said.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 and reigned for 65 years, during which he became widely respected for his leadership, foresight, and deep commitment to development.
“Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was a remarkable royal father, who ascended the throne in 1960, marking the beginning of a transformative era for Ijebuland. Throughout his reign, he was a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development,” the Ogun State governor said.
Governor Abiodun also highlighted the monarch’s dedication to public welfare, crediting him for spearheading significant strides in education, healthcare, and economic growth.
“Under his guidance, Ijebuland witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development, establishing itself as a model of progress in Ogun State.
“His leadership not only enhanced the cultural heritage of Ijebuland—with the Ojude Oba festival attaining international standards—but also solidified its reputation as a thriving hub of commerce and tradition.
“As we mourn his passing, let us celebrate the extraordinary life of Oba Adetona and honour his contributions to our country. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people will forever be etched in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to uphold the values he instilled in us during his illustrious reign,” the statement read.
A Towering Natural Ruler
President Bola Tinubu also mourned the passing of Awujale of Ijebuland, describing him as “a towering natural ruler” who served his people with honour, dignity, and wisdom.
In a statement issued from the State House, Tinubu said he received the news of the monarch’s death with “deep pain,” especially as it came on the same day as the passing of ex-President Buhari.
“Oba Adetona was a voice of reason during national crises and used his position to promote unity and progress,” the president said, highlighting his six-decade reign in Ijebuland.
He praised the monarch’s contributions to education and good governance, particularly through his endowment at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
“May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest,” Tinubu said, offering condolences to the royal family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the people of Ogun State, and all sons and daughters of Ijebuland.
Oba Adetona was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs, serving as the Awujale of Ijebuland from 1960 until his death in 2025.
Born on May 10, 1934 in Ijebu Ode, he came from the Royal House of Anikinaiya and was a descendant of Oba Adeleke and Oba Gbelegbuwa.
The Awujale is the traditional ruler of the Ijebu people in Ogun State and holds one of the most respected royal titles in Yorubaland. The position rotates among four ruling houses — Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote. Oba Adetona, from the Anikinaiya house, became the 50th Awujale when he was crowned on 2 April 1960.
Before becoming king at age 26, he studied at Olu-Iwa College in Ijebu Ode and later travelled to the UK to study accountancy after briefly working in the Western Region’s Audit Department. His selection and confirmation as king followed due traditional and legal process.
During his time as ruler, Oba Adetona received several Nigerian presidents and national leaders.
Notably, former President Goodluck Jonathan visited him in 2015, followed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016. In May 2024, President Bola Tinubu honoured the Awujale with Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), in celebration of his 90th birthday.
The Awujale of Ijebu land was widely respected for his wisdom, modern outlook, and leadership. He played a strong role in traditional and national affairs, including serving in the Western Region House of Chiefs, and remained a prominent voice for unity and development throughout his 65-year reign.
