The final rites of passage for the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, were marked by brief tension on Monday as soldiers reportedly barred traditionalists, believed to be members of the Osugbo cult—from participating in the monarch’s funeral, which was conducted according to Islamic customs in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Eyewitnesses at the monarch’s private residence in Ijebu Ode confirmed that the presence of the traditionalists at the solemn ceremony sparked unease among attendees. The situation was swiftly brought under control after security operatives intervened and escorted the group out of the premises, ensuring the funeral continued without disruption.
Oba Adetona, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, was laid to rest beside his late father and mother in a mausoleum within his residence at approximately 6:00 p.m. The interment, guided by Islamic principles, followed prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo, in line with the monarch’s personal faith.
The attempted intrusion by the Osugbo cult has once again brought to the fore the lingering disagreement surrounding the Ogun State Chiefs Law of 2021, which grants traditional rulers the right to be buried in accordance with their religious beliefs. Many traditional worshippers, particularly in Ijebuland, have opposed this provision, arguing that it dilutes ancient customs. Notably, the late monarch played a significant role in pushing for the legal amendment, which sought to balance cultural heritage with religious freedom.
The presence of the traditionalists on the day of burial is widely seen as an effort to reclaim authority over royal interment practices, but the state security arrangement, particularly the deployment of soldiers, ensured the ceremony proceeded peacefully under Islamic rites as stipulated by the deceased monarch’s personal wish.
Dignitaries from across the country gathered to pay their final respects. Among those present were former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor of Ogun State Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly Oluwadaisi Elemide, former Governors Segun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, and Senators Solomon Adeola and Salisu Shuaib.
Also in attendance was Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, who hailed Oba Adetona for his love for people across regional and religious divides, describing him as a monarch whose impact on national unity and development remains unmatched.
Governor Abiodun, in a moving tribute, described the late Oba as a beacon of peace, wisdom, and principled leadership, saying his 65-year reign was defined by forthrightness, service to humanity, and immense contributions to the socio-economic growth of Ijebu and Nigeria at large.
He said, “Kabiyesi was a bundle of intellect and courage, a man who loved his people dearly and led with integrity and justice. Even during times of political turbulence, including the build-up to the 2019 elections, he stood by me with unwavering guidance and support.”
Speaking to journalists at the event, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Dr. Sunny Kuku, who will temporarily serve as regent, described Oba Adetona as a monarch who redefined royalty and used his throne to empower his people and promote education. According to him, the late monarch turned the annual Ojude Oba festival into an international cultural attraction, significantly boosting the local economy and tourism.
Kuku noted that the late Awujale’s devotion to the welfare of his people and commitment to truth and justice made him a rare figure in Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
Also reacting, Ogun PDP chieftain and 2023 governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, praised the monarch’s enduring legacy of selfless service, urging Nigerians to embrace his style of people-centred leadership that prioritised community development and unity.
Former Governor Gbenga Daniel echoed similar sentiments, describing the late Awujale as a fearless monarch who never shied away from speaking truth to power. Daniel also called for the actualisation of the long-standing demand for the creation of a new state out of the old Ijebu Province—a dream the late monarch passionately championed during his lifetime.
He said, “Kabiyesi was one of the few leaders who spoke with conviction and clarity, regardless of whose ox was gored. He had detractors, but history has vindicated him repeatedly. Now is the time to honour him by correcting a historical injustice—the creation of Ijebu State.”
Daniel pointed out that Ijebu is the only one among the 24 provinces created in 1924 that has not been carved into a state, and urged political leaders to seize this opportunity to immortalise Oba Adetona.
Former Governor Segun Osoba also paid glowing tribute to the late king, describing him as a wise and sincere monarch whose leadership was a source of inspiration across Nigeria. Osoba said Oba Adetona’s foresight and moral clarity made him one of the most revered traditional rulers in the country.
As the people of Ijebu bid farewell to a royal icon who sat on the throne for over six decades, many have described his burial not just as the end of an era, but the celebration of a life that bridged tradition and modernity, religion and royalty, with rare clarity and distinction.
