THE late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has been buried at his private residence in the Igbeba Government Reserved Area of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Oba Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91, was laid to rest yesterday amid an outpouring of tributes from traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens.
His death came just a day after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The news was formally announced by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.
The Islamic Janazah prayer was led by Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo. In honour of the revered monarch, markets across Ijebu-Ode were shut by directive of the local government.
President Bola Tinubu was represented at the burial by ministers Adegboyega Oyetola and Bosun Tijani.
Other high-profile attendees included Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel; businessman Aliko Dangote; and politician Ladi Adebutu.
In his tribute, Governor Abiodun described the monarch as a steadfast leader and a guiding father figure.
He recalled commissioning the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road in his honour upon taking office. Gbenga Daniel lauded Oba Adetona’s fearlessness and advocacy for truth, urging that the proposed Ijebu State — a long-time dream of the late king — be realized as part of his legacy.
Olusegun Osoba highlighted the Awujale’s contributions to educational development, while Aliko Dangote remembered him as a mentally sharp, deeply respected leader, even in his final days.
Widely known for championing traditional reforms and religious freedom in burial customs, Oba Adetona also played a key role in unifying the Ijebu people, notably through the iconic Ojude Oba festival.
Born on May 10, 1934, into the Anikinaiya Royal House, Oba Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, at just 26 years old. A trained accountant in the UK, he previously worked in the Western Region’s Audit Department.
Over his six-and-a-half-decade reign, he welcomed several Nigerian presidents and was honoured in 2024 by President Tinubu with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).
Oba Sikiru Adetona’s death marks the end of an era — but his legacy of visionary leadership, modernized monarchy, and tireless advocacy for his people will endure.