Tributes Pour In Following the Passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland at 91
Tributes Pour In Following the Passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland at 91
President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun on Sunday mourned the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
The revered monarch died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, reportedly passing away in the evening at his residence in Ijebu Ode GRA, within the Ijebu Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
His death came shortly after the announcement of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who also died in a hospital in the United Kingdom on the same day following a prolonged illness.
Governor Dapo Abiodun confirmed the monarch’s death in a statement, describing the loss as the end of a significant era.
He expressed the shared grief over the fact that Oba Adetona passed away on the very day Buhari also died in London, calling it a “double sadness.”
In his announcement, Abiodun said, “It is with profound sorrow that I inform the public of the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the esteemed Awujale of Ijebuland.
“Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025, at 91 years old, leaving behind a legacy that has deeply influenced Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large.
“Ascending the throne in 1960, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona ushered in a transformative era for Ijebuland. Throughout his reign, he served as a unifying figure, championed cultural preservation, and promoted progressive development.
“His unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people was reflected in his efforts to advance education, improve healthcare, and stimulate economic growth both within Ogun State and across Nigeria.”
The statement further noted, “Under his leadership, Ijebuland achieved significant progress in infrastructure and community development, establishing itself as a model of advancement within Ogun State.”
His leadership not only elevated the cultural heritage of Ijebuland—bringing the Ojude Oba festival to international prominence—but also reinforced the region’s standing as a vibrant center of commerce and tradition.
The governor urged Nigerians to celebrate the remarkable life of Oba Adetona and recognize his significant contributions to the nation.
“As we grieve his loss, let us also honour the extraordinary life of Oba Adetona and the impact he made on our country. His wisdom, compassion, and steadfast dedication to the welfare of his people will remain forever in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to uphold the values he championed throughout his distinguished reign,” the statement read.
Confirming the news in a phone interview, a prominent chief in Ijebuland, Prof. Fassy Yusuff, said, “It is true, Kabiyesi has passed on. Further announcements will be made in due course. He died about two hours ago.”
