Nigeria has lost one of its most revered traditional rulers as the Awujale and paramount monarch of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has passed on at the age of 91.
Reliable sources close to the Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu-Ode and senior officials within the Ogun State Government confirmed the death of the iconic royal father on Sunday. Official announcements are being awaited from both the palace and the Ogun State Government.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 and reigned for over six decades, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigeria’s history. Throughout his reign, he was widely respected for his wisdom, forthrightness, and firm stand on issues of national importance, particularly those affecting the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.
He was known to have maintained strong relationships with key national figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, with whom he shared a longstanding friendship and mutual respect.
The monarch’s death marks the end of an era in traditional rulership in Nigeria, particularly within the Yoruba cultural landscape where he stood as a towering figure. His passing is expected to be met with deep mourning and widespread tributes from traditional institutions, political leaders, and citizens across the country.
As Nigerians await official confirmation and funeral arrangements, the nation reflects on the legacy of a king whose influence reached far beyond his kingdom in Ijebuland.
