Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Adetona laid to rest

The remains of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, have been laid to rest at his private residence in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

The monarch death was announced on Sunday by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Dignitaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, and residents paid their final respects in Ijebu-Ode on Monday to the ruler who reigned for 65 years.

The Janazah (Islamic burial prayer) was led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo. Markets across the town were shut as directed by the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area Chairman, Dare Alebiosu, in honour of the departed king.

President Bola Tinubu was represented by a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.

Among the dignitaries present were Governor Abiodun of Ogun State; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former governors of Ogun, Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel; business mogul Aliko Dangote; and PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu.

Speaking at the burial, Governor Abiodun described the Awujale as “a dependable father and a selfless leader,” recalling how the monarch stood by him both privately and publicly during personal and political challenges.

“In appreciation of what Kabiyesi did for me, I awarded the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road in his honour upon assuming office,” he noted.

Otunba Daniel praised Oba Adetona’s fearlessness and integrity, describing him as “a monarch who never shielded the truth.” He said, “One of the best ways to immortalise Kabiyesi is by actualising the long-desired Ijebu State, a dream he nurtured till the end.”

Former governor Olusegun Osoba echoed the sentiments, noting the Awujale’s profound impact on educational development in the state.

In his tribute, Dangote said, “Baba lived a fulfilled life. He was respected and loved. His reputation, not only in Ijebu but across Ogun State and Nigeria, remains intact. Even in his final hours, he was mentally sharp, speaking to the governor shortly before his passing.”

The late Awujale was widely regarded for his advocacy for traditional rulers to be buried in line with their personal religious beliefs, his consistent call for the creation of an Ijebu State, and his efforts in uniting the Ijebu people, particularly through the annual Ojude Oba festival.

Oba Adetona, born on 10 May 1934, hailed from the Anikinaiya Royal House and was the 50th Awujale, ascending the throne on 2 April 1960 at the age of 26. Before becoming king, he studied accountancy in the United Kingdom after working briefly with the Audit Department of the Western Region.