The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has passed away at the age of 91.
His death comes not long after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Crowned on April 2, 1960, the late monarch ruled for more than 64 years, making him one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers.
His relationship with Buhari began in the 1980s under remarkable circumstances. In 1983, then Ogun State Governor Olabisi Onabanjo had signed a removal order against the Awujale, set to take effect on January 2, 1984. However, Buhari’s military coup on December 31, 1983, which ousted the civilian government, disrupted the plan — unintentionally allowing the king to remain on the throne.
Reacting to his death, Prince Adedoyin Alatishe, a member of the Ijebu royal family, posted an emotional tribute on X: “Baami Ogbagba agbatewole 💔. Erin wo. Omo anikilaya saagbu.”
Ogun gov, Tinubu mourn Awujale
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, confirmed the monarch’s death. In a statement on Sunday, Abiodun expressed: “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.
He described the late Awujale as “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,” whose under his guidance, Ijebuland witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development, establishing itself as a model of progress in Ogun State.
The governor added: “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.
President Bola Tinubu in his condolence referred to the late monarch as “a towering natural ruler and a voice of reason during national crises and used his position to promote unity and progress.”
Tinubu commended the King’s impacts to education and good governance, particularly through his endowment at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Tinubu added, “May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest.”
