By Our Reporter
Nigeria was plunged into mourning on Sunday as the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari was swiftly followed by the passing of one of the country’s most revered traditional rulers, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland. The 91-year-old monarch died on July 13 after a remarkable 65-year reign, having ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 26.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State broke the news Sunday evening in a solemn statement, describing the day as one of “double sadness” for the nation. “Oba Adetona leaves behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria in general,” the governor said.
President Bola Tinubu also mourned the monarch’s death, which he said coincided with the painful loss of former President Buhari. “The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general,” Tinubu said in a tribute issued from the State House.
Widely regarded as a reformer and cultural icon, Oba Adetona’s reign brought unprecedented development to Ijebuland. Under his leadership, the ancient kingdom witnessed vast improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He elevated the Ojude Oba festival to international prominence and championed progressive governance.
President Tinubu, who enjoyed a close personal relationship with the monarch, described him as “an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile,” adding that his wisdom and candour would be sorely missed. He hailed the Oba’s philanthropic legacy, including the endowment of a professorial chair in governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Oba Adetona was known for his boldness in public affairs and his unwavering commitment to justice and transparency. Over the decades, he became a respected voice of reason during moments of national uncertainty and crisis, earning admiration far beyond Ijebuland.
Born in 1934, Oba Adetona was the fifth Awujale from the Anikinaiya Ruling House. His reign, which spanned Nigeria’s independence and several democratic transitions, marked him as one of the country’s longest-serving monarchs and most influential traditional figures.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the country, with politicians, traditional leaders, and citizens praising his statesmanship, generosity, and devotion to his people. Many described his passing as the end of an era.
As Ijebuland prepares for the royal transition and traditional rites, the Ogun State Government has declared a period of mourning. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.