Ijebu, Ogun in Mourning as Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, Passes On at 91

Governor Abiodun hails monarch’s legacy, mourns former President Buhari’s death on same day

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has passed away at the age of 91, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, announced Saturday.

In a statement personally signed by him, Abiodun described Oba Adetona as a “remarkable royal father” whose reign ushered in a new dawn for Ijebuland and Ogun State as a whole.

“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland. Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general,” Abiodun said.

Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 at a young age and became one of Nigeria’s longest-serving monarchs. His reign saw significant progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation.

The governor praised the monarch for transforming the Ojude Oba Festival into an internationally acclaimed cultural event and for fostering peace and economic growth in Ijebuland.

“It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that former President Muhammadu Buhari passed on in a London hospital,” Abiodun added.

He called on the people of Ogun State and Nigerians at large to celebrate the monarch’s life of impact, service, and cultural pride.

“His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people will forever be etched in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to uphold the values he instilled in us during his illustrious reign,” Abiodun said.

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