Dignitaries, including Osinbajo, Sanwo-Olu, Dangote, and national leaders, pay final respects as Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most principled traditional rulers, whose 64-year reign redefined the Yoruba monarchy.
Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State — The nation is in mourning following the passing of one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning and most revered traditional rulers, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who joined his ancestors at the age of 91.
The respected monarch, who ascended the throne in 1960 at just 26, was laid to rest in line with Islamic rites at his Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode. Prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo, while traditionalists who arrived to perform rites were respectfully turned back by security.
A convergence of prominent Nigerians and government officials at the solemn ceremony reflected the towering legacy of Oba Adetona. Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun in paying homage.
Also present were Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola; former governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel; Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, among others. Fuji icon Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) was also in attendance.
In a heartfelt tribute, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele hailed the monarch as a “proponent of peace and unity,” noting that his 64-year reign witnessed growth, cultural preservation, and fearless leadership. Similarly, House of Reps Speaker Tajudeen Abbas described the late Oba as an embodiment of integrity and purpose who made Ojude Oba, the annual festival, a global cultural showcase.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his message on X, reflected that the Awujale’s legacy would continue to guide Ijebuland. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq called him “an emblem of unity and culture,” while Ogun State House Speaker Oludaisi Elemide described him as “a disciplined and transformative royal figure.”
Oba Adetona was widely known for his blunt honesty and aversion to sycophancy. “He spoke truth to power, mentored generations, and redefined traditional leadership in Nigeria,” said Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele, adding that he stood as a custodian of culture, history, and integrity.
Senator Gbenga Daniel, a close observer of the monarch’s reign, noted: “The Ijebu people have lost a great grandfather who provided constant paternal support. He was fearless, direct, and never diplomatic—he said it as it was.”
According to customary law, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is next in line to produce the Awujale. This follows the traditional order of rotation: Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote. Oba Adetona hailed from the Anikinaiya Ruling House, while his predecessor, Oba Daniel Adesanya Gbelegbuwa II, reigned from 1933 to 1959.
Fusengbuwa is historically the most prolific of the ruling houses, having produced Awujales such as Funsegbuwa, Jadiara, and Tuwase.
Oba Adetona’s 64-year reign was marked by modernization, steadfast values, and cultural pride. As the nation reflects on his departure, commemorative events are expected to be announced by the Ogun State Government in the coming days.
In the words of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, “Yoruba people across the globe will deeply miss a ruler whose wisdom and leadership left an indelible mark.”
A monarch of refreshing candour. A statesman in royal garb. A symbol of unity in turbulent times. Nigeria bids farewell to Oba Sikiru Adetona — a royal father like no other.
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