President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most revered and outstanding traditional rulers.
In a statement personally signed by the President on Sunday night, Tinubu said the monarch’s passing marked a huge loss to Yorubaland and the country, especially as it coincided with the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” Tinubu said.
According to the President, the monarch, who ascended the throne at age 26 and reigned for over 65 years, played a key role in fostering national unity and guiding his people through decades of transformation in Ijebuland.
“During his remarkable reign that witnessed tremendous progress and development in Ijebu-Ode and the entire Ijebuland, Oba Adetona provided uncompromising leadership to his people.
“In his over six decades on the throne, ascending at 26, Oba Adetona used his role as a foremost ruler to advance the cause of progress and national unity. In a time of national crisis and uncertainty, he stood firmly as a voice of reason,” Tinubu added.
“I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering,” he said.
Tinubu also praised Oba Adetona’s contributions to education and research, citing the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, as one of his enduring legacies.
“As the nation mourns Oba Adetona’s passing, I extend my condolences to the family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government, the people of Ogun State, and sons and daughters of Ijebuland,” the President said.
He prayed for the monarch’s soul to find eternal rest and for his legacy of service to continue inspiring future generations.
