The remains of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, were laid to rest at his private residence in Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The monarch, who passed away at the age of 91, was remembered for his remarkable leadership and contributions to the development of Ijebu land.
Janazah (Islamic burial prayer) was led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo. Markets across the town were shut as directed by the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area Chairman, Dare Alebiosu, in honour of the departed king.
President Bola Tinubu was represented by a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
Other dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders paid their final respects to the late monarch. Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described Oba Adetona as “a dependable father and a selfless leader” who stood by him during personal and political challenges.
Other notable figures, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, and business mogul Aliko Dangote, also paid tribute to the late king.
Oba Adetona’s legacy included his advocacy for traditional rulers to be buried according to their personal religious beliefs, his call for the creation of an Ijebu State, and his efforts in uniting the Ijebu people through the annual Ojude Oba festival.
He was also recognized for his modern approach to traditional leadership and his ability to maintain close ties with national leaders.
The late Awujale, who reigned for 65 years, was born on May 10, 1934, and ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, at the age of 26.
He studied accountancy in the United Kingdom and worked briefly with the Audit Department of the Western Region before becoming king.
Throughout his reign, he hosted several presidents, including Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, and was conferred with Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), in celebration of his 90th birthday.
Oba Adetona’s passing marker the end of an era, but his legacy of forthright leadership, modern traditionalism, and unyielding service to his people will live on.
His impact on educational development in the state and his commitment to the welfare of his people will be remembered for generations to come.
