By Gideon Maxwell
June 13, 2025
The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has died at the age of 91, ending a reign that spanned over six decades, during which he played a prominent role in the affairs of Ijebuland and the wider Yoruba community.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne of his forefathers on April 2, 1960, passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, at his palace in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. His death came just hours after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, with whom he shared a close and decades-long friendship.
The news of his demise was formally announced by the Anikilaya Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode, which described his passing as “a profound loss” not only to the Ijebu people but to the entire Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign was marked by exceptional leadership, during which he transformed Ijebu-Ode and its environs into a hub of cultural pride, economic progress, and social development.
He was known for championing educational initiatives, improving health services, and supporting modern infrastructure while preserving the rich cultural heritage of his people, most notably through the promotion of the globally celebrated Ojude Oba festival.
In response to his passing, President Bola Tinubu described the monarch as “a towering natural ruler” and “a unifying voice who stood for justice and democracy.” Tinubu added that the monarch’s death brought him “double pain,” having also lost former President Buhari on the same day.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, praising the Awujale’s courage and vision, which he said elevated Ijebuland to national prominence.
Similarly, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, described the monarch as an embodiment of dignity, wisdom, and service to humanity.
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Markets in Ijebu-Ode, including Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje, were ordered closed on Monday by the local government to honour the late monarch and allow residents to mourn in accordance with tradition.
Oba Adetona was widely respected beyond the shores of Nigeria for his firm stance on democratic ideals, particularly during Nigeria’s turbulent political years in the 1990s.
He maintained a reputation as an outspoken royal father who balanced tradition with modernity and governance with moral integrity.
Details of the funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the royal family and the Ogun State Government in the coming days.
With his passing, the Ijebu nation enters a period of mourning, reflecting on the remarkable life of a king who defined an era and left a legacy that will endure for generations.
