On Monday, July 14, 2025, dignitaries including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu and former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo joined Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to pay their final respects at the burial of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, held at his private residence in Ijebu‑Ode. The monarch, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 91, was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites at his Ogbagba Court in Igbeba, following a dignified traditional ceremony that drew hundreds of mourners from across the region
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne on April 2, 1960 at age 26, enjoyed one of the longest reigns in Nigeria’s history, earning a reputation as a unifying leader and advocate for cultural heritage. Guests at the ceremony included former Ogun governor Gbenga Daniel, philanthropist Aliko Dangote, and Fuji icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate
His burial drew notable political figures from across the country, reflecting his far‑reaching influence and the deep respect he commanded.
A statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, confirmed that the interment took place at 4 p.m. and urged residents to keep the royal family in their prayers
In observance of mourning customs, markets and shops across Ijebu‑Ode were closed as local traders and indigenes paid tribute to Oba Adetona’s memory
President Bola Tinubu, who on the same day had mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, described the monarch’s departure as “double pain,” noting that the loss of such a towering figure left “an enormous void in the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria at large”
Governor Abiodun echoed this sentiment, observing the end of an era shaped by Oba Adetona’s over six decades of dedicated service, and lauding his lifelong efforts toward education, infrastructure and cultural preservation
Born on May 10, 1934, and educated both at home and abroad in the United Kingdom, the late Awujale traced his royal lineage to the House of Anikinaiya. His enduring legacy includes reviving the annual Ojude Oba festival—which draws up to a million participants—and championing local development programs
As Ijebu‑Ode’s streets fell silent and communities gathered to honour his life, Oba Adetona’s burial stands as a solemn reminder of his unwavering commitment to his people and the rich traditions of Ijebuland.
