By Bilesanmi Abayomi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large.
In a statement released by the State House on Saturday night, the President paid glowing tribute to the revered monarch, who reigned for more than 65 years, calling him one of Nigeria’s most distinguished traditional rulers.
“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” Tinubu said.
The monarch, who ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 26, became one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in the country’s history. President Tinubu hailed his reign as one that brought remarkable progress to Ijebuland and offered stabilising leadership during national challenges.
The President, who maintained a close relationship with the late monarch, described him as “an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile,” noting that his wisdom and candour served as a source of strength and guidance in both personal and national matters.
He also highlighted Oba Adetona’s notable contributions to education and governance, especially his support for the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.
“As the nation mourns Oba Adetona’s passing, I extend my condolences to his family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government and people of Ogun State, and all sons and daughters of Ijebuland,” the President said.
President Tinubu’s grief was further compounded by the coinciding death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, which he described as a double tragedy for the country.
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, born in 1934, leaves behind a rich legacy of service, philanthropy, and transformational leadership that is expected to endure for generations.