The revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has passed away at the age of 91. The monarch, one of Nigeria's longest-reigning traditional rulers, joined his ancestors on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
His demise, which has cast a pall over the entire Ijebu kingdom and indeed Ogun State, was officially announced by the state government. In a statement, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, expressed profound sadness over the monarch's passing, describing him as a remarkable royal father whose reign was a transformative era for Ijebuland.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, just a few months before Nigeria gained independence. His 64-year reign was marked by significant developmental strides in education, healthcare, and the economy of Ijebuland. He was widely respected for his wisdom, courage, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
Tributes have begun to pour in from across the nation, with many notable figures lauding the late monarch's contributions to national discourse and development. He was known for his candidness on national issues and was a strong advocate for the constitutional role of traditional rulers in modern Nigeria.
Coincidentally, the Awujale's passing occurred on the same day as that of his longtime friend, former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. This has been noted as a "double sadness" by Governor Abiodun.
Born on May 10, 1934, Oba Adetona was from the Anikinaiya ruling house. His reign saw the popular Ojude Oba festival grow into an internationally recognized event, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the Ijebu people.
As the news of his transition spreads, traditional rites of passage are expected to commence in Ijebu Ode. The palace has yet to release a formal statement on the subsequent traditional procedures. The entire Ijebuland is in mourning for a monarch who was a towering figure and a symbol of unity and progress for over six decades.
