Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced the passing of Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Abiodun, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta by Mr Kayode Akinmade, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, announced the transition of the paramount ruler .
“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 on July 13, 2025 at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun and Nigeria in general.
“It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, died in a London, the United Kingdom hospital.”
The governor described Oba Adetona as a remarkable royal father, who ascended the throne in 1960, marking the beginning of a transformative era for Ijebuland.
Abiodun said throughout his reign, he was a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development.
He said that the late royal father’s dedication to the welfare of his people was evident in his efforts to foster educational advancements, healthcare improvements, and economic growth within the state and Nigeria,
“Under his guidance, Ijebuland witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development, establishing itself as a model of progress in Ogun.
“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,” Abiodun said.
Tinubu mourns iconic Awujale of Ijebu
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of the Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, describing him as an iconic and dignified traditional ruler.
In a tribute personally signed, Tinubu praised the monarch’s 65-year reign, which was marked by unwavering duty, honour, and selfless service to his people.
Tinubu said the Oba’s passing brought double grief, as it occurred alongside the death of his immediate predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.
“The passing of Oba Adetona has created a huge vacuum within traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
“Oba Adetona was a towering ruler who served with grace, dignity, and a firm sense of duty,” the President said.
He noted that the monarch’s leadership impacted not just Ijebu-Ode but the wider Ijebu community, promoting unity and development across the region.
“His reign brought notable progress and transformation to Ijebu-Ode and Ijebu community through his steadfast leadership and vision for his people,” Tinubu added.
The President recalled that Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne at 26, championed peace, progress, and national cohesion during his reign.
“Oba Adetona used his royal platform to promote unity and progress for over six decades, beginning at just 26 years old.
“Amid national uncertainty, he always stood as a voice of reason and a symbol of stability,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu also reflected on his personal relationship with the traditional ruler, describing it as a bond filled with wisdom and strength.
“I found his presence comforting, his wisdom enlightening, and his honesty deeply empowering,” the President noted.
He praised the late monarch’s enduring legacy in public service, philanthropy, and education, particularly through the governance school at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the royal family, Gov. Dapo Abiodun, and all the people of Ogun State and Ijebu community.
He prayed for Oba Adetona’s peaceful rest and asked for strength to uphold the values and legacy he left behind.