Awujale of Ijebu, Revered Monarch And Friend Of Buhari, Passes Away at 91.
The Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has died at the age of 91, marking the end of an era for the Ijebu Kingdom. The respected monarch, who reigned for over six decades, passed away on Sunday, as confirmed by sources close to the palace. His death has sent ripples of mourning across Nigeria, particularly in Ogun State, where he was a towering figure of cultural and traditional significance.
Oba Adetona, born on 10 May 1934, ascended the throne in 1960, becoming one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs. A descendant of the Anikinaiya ruling family, he was the son of Prince Rufai Adetona and Alhaja Ajibabi Adetona. His reign was marked by a steadfast commitment to preserving Ijebu culture, most notably through the annual Ojude Oba festival, a vibrant celebration of heritage that draws thousands of locals and tourists alike. The festival, held in Ijebu Ode, showcases the rich traditions of the Ijebu people, with colourful parades, horse riding, and tributes paid to the Awujale.
Known for his wisdom and unifying presence, Oba Adetona was a symbol of stability in Ijebuland. His absence at the 2025 Ojude Oba festival, where he was represented by his wife, Olori Kemi Adetona, had sparked concern among his subjects. Festival coordinator Dr Fassy Yusuff later explained that the monarch was recuperating at home following a hospital discharge, citing his advanced age and health challenges. Despite these difficulties, the Awujale’s legacy as a cultural icon remained undiminished.
The late monarch shared a long-standing friendship with former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who also passed away on the same day at the age of 82 in a London clinic. The two were known to have maintained a close bond, with Buhari reportedly valuing Oba Adetona’s counsel during his tenure as president from 2015 to 2023. Their relationship underscored the Awujale’s influence beyond Ijebuland, cementing his role as a respected elder statesman.
Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria, with dignitaries and community leaders praising Oba Adetona’s contributions to cultural preservation and community development. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who attended the 2024 Ojude Oba festival, had previously described the event as a “symbol of unity” and a testament to the Awujale’s enduring legacy. The governor is expected to issue a formal statement as Ijebuland prepares to mourn its revered leader.
Oba Adetona’s reign also inspired creative works, including a recent biopic directed by Tunde Olaoye, which chronicled his life and contributions to the Ijebu Kingdom. The film featured veteran actress Sola Sobowale as the Awujale’s late mother, reflecting the monarch’s deep connection to his heritage.
As Ijebuland grieves, preparations are underway for traditional rites to honour the late monarch. His body is expected to be returned to Ijebu Ode for burial in accordance with Yoruba customs. The palace has yet to announce details of the funeral, but the outpouring of grief suggests that Oba Adetona’s legacy will endure in the hearts of his people.
The passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona marks a profound loss for Nigeria, as the nation bids farewell to a monarch whose life embodied the pride and resilience of Ijebuland. His contributions to culture, unity, and tradition will be remembered for generations to come.