President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid an emotional tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, describing the revered monarch as more than just a royal figure but a trusted confidante and a man of unwavering integrity.
In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Sunday, Tinubu recalled the personal loss he felt following the death of the Awujale on Sunday, July 13, noting that the monarch’s death occurred just hours after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Last Sunday, within hours, I lost two men I held in the highest esteem: my dear predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, and Kabiyesi, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II, the Awujale of Ijebuland,” the president wrote.
President Tinubu attended the eighth-day Fidau prayers held in Ijebu-Ode, describing the late monarch as a steadying presence in his life and a revered guide in moments of difficulty.
“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father to me. He was a confidante, a guide, and a man of truth whose wisdom never failed to steady those who sought it,” he said.
Celebrating Oba Adetona’s extraordinary reign of over 65 years, Tinubu praised his legacy of service, integrity and courage, noting that the monarch always placed the interests of his people above all else.
“In over six decades on the throne, he ruled with rare dignity, candour, and courage, always putting the people first with an unmistakable sense of duty,” the president said.
He added that the Awujale’s death represents a monumental loss to Nigeria’s traditional institutions, particularly in Yorubaland, where the monarch had long been regarded as a stabilising and progressive force.
“Oba Adetona’s demise has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general. His voice, leadership, and generosity will echo far beyond Ijebuland,” Tinubu stated.
The 73-year-old concluded his tribute with prayers for the monarch’s eternal rest.
“May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort all who mourn him.”
Oba Sikiru Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs and a pillar of influence in both traditional and modern statecraft.
His reign was known to be marked by his fearless candour, unwavering advocacy for justice and consistent engagement in national affairs.
