The Awujale of Ijebuland and Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was laid to rest on Monday at his private residence in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, following Janazah prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Sheikh Miftaudeen Gbadegesin Ayanbadejo.
Oba Adetona passed away on Sunday at the age of 91, after an extraordinary reign spanning 65 years, having ascended the throne on April 2, 1960.
The solemn yet dignified burial ceremony was attended by high-profile figures from across Nigeria, including a federal government delegation led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani.
Also present were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Ogun Governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), and business mogul Aliko Dangote, among others.
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Abiodun described the late monarch as “a king like no other” who redefined traditional leadership and left a legacy that transcends Ogun State.
“A vacuum has been created, and a big one for that matter,” Abiodun remarked. “In Ijebuland, we haven’t experienced succession in over six decades, but we are an organized people. While it’s too early to discuss, I assure you that the succession process will be peaceful and by the book.”
He urged Ijebu sons and daughters to honour the Awujale’s memory by conducting themselves in ways that reflect his values.
Former Governor Olusegun Osoba praised Oba Adetona’s sharp intellect and unblemished legacy, stating, “Baba lived a fulfilled life. His reputation, both in Ijebuland and Ogun State, remains intact. He was still mentally alert hours before his passing.”
Also paying tribute, Aliko Dangote noted the monarch’s significant influence across generations, saying, “I had a personal relationship with him, and I am here to pay my last respects to a great man.”
Oba Sikiru Adetona leaves behind a towering legacy of leadership, wisdom, and modernization of the traditional institution — a legacy that will shape Ijebuland for generations to come.
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