President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, prophesied his victory in the 2023 presidential election and assured him of re-election for a second term.
Speaking during the 8th-day Fidau prayer held in honour of the revered monarch at Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Tinubu said the late monarch’s words gave him confidence and strength on his journey to the presidency.
“I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale. I came to him and he blessed me. He said, ‘You will win that election and you will be re-elected. Go ahead,’” Tinubu said.
Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Tinubu praised Oba Adetona’s wisdom and integrity, describing him as a man of honour, truth, and courage.
“Today marks a very great day in the history of our nation, and particularly the Yoruba race. If you want to understand our culture deeply, start from Awujale. You will learn a lot,” he added.
He noted that the monarch stood firmly with the people during the struggle for democracy, especially during the June 12 crisis.
“During our protests and resistance against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Baba was always there—steadfast and encouraging.”
Tinubu recalled with pride that Oba Adetona was honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) at age 90.
“Very honest, very bold, and very truthful—he would not deceive you,” the president said.
Earlier, Tinubu paid a private condolence visit to the late monarch’s family and laid a wreath at his final resting place.
He called on politicians and indigenes of Ijebuland to honour the monarch’s legacy by staying united and upholding the values he stood for.
“Kabiyesi was more than a monarch; he was a beacon of hope and a custodian of our culture. We must cherish his legacy and allow the spirit of unity he left behind to guide us,” he said.
The Fidau ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; and former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba.
Also present were ministers Wale Edun, Festus Keyamo, Dele Alake, and Bosun Tijani; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; Senators Seriake Dickson and Solomon Adeola; Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Ibrahim Isiaka; and Rep. Olumide Osoba.
Traditional rulers, clerics, and members of the Ijebu community also turned out in large numbers. Before the stadium event, Islamic and Christian clerics led prayers at the late Oba’s residence.
Governor Abiodun, in his tribute, described the Awujale as a true patriarch, a voice for the voiceless, and a moral compass whose reign brought honour and transformation to Ijebuland.
“Kabiyesi was not just a ruler; he was a mentor. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” Abiodun said.