President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, describing the revered monarch as one of Nigeria’s most iconic and distinguished traditional rulers.
In a heartfelt statement issued on Saturday night, President Tinubu disclosed that the news of Oba Adetona’s demise brought him profound grief, which was worsened by the coinciding death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He noted that the loss of the monarch marks a significant moment of national mourning and leaves a deep void in Nigeria’s traditional leadership.
“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” the President stated.
President Tinubu highlighted the monarch’s over 65-year reign, which he described as an era of progress, stability, and purposeful leadership for Ijebu-Ode and the entire Ijebuland. Ascending the throne at the youthful age of 26, Oba Adetona became a beacon of courage and wisdom, playing key roles in championing national unity and standing as a voice of reason in challenging times.
Recalling their personal relationship, President Tinubu praised the late monarch’s integrity and leadership qualities, describing him as “an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile.” He added that he would always cherish their moments together, which he found to be comforting and enriching.
The President extended his condolences to the people of Ijebuland, the Ogun State Government, the entire Yoruba traditional council, and the nation at large, acknowledging Oba Adetona’s profound legacy and the immeasurable contributions he made to Nigeria’s cultural and political heritage.
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona’s reign remains one of the longest in Nigeria’s history, and his memory, President Tinubu affirmed, will continue to inspire generations to come.
