The revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was laid to rest on Monday, July 14, at his private residence in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, in accordance with Islamic rites. The monarch, who passed away at the age of 91 on Sunday, had reigned for an unprecedented 65 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigeria.
The solemn ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others. Former Ogun governors Segun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun (represented by his wife, Olufunso), were also present.
A federal government delegation, led by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola and Minister of Communications Tunji Bosun, paid tribute on behalf of the presidency.
Also in attendance were members of the Ogun State Muslim Council, Ijebu high chiefs, prominent Islamic clerics from the Southwest, and business mogul Aliko Dangote.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960 at age 26, was celebrated for his principled leadership, advocacy for truth, cultural preservation, and insistence on religious freedom. Despite attempts by traditionalists to enforce customary rites, his burial proceeded according to Islamic practices, in line with Section 55 of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law (2021), which upholds a monarch’s right to religious burial.
Governor Abiodun, who returned from Brazil for the funeral, described the monarch as a bold and philanthropic leader whose legacy includes unwavering support for his people and modernization of Ijebuland. In his honour, the Ijebu-Ode-Mojoda-Epe Road was named after him.
Senator Gbenga Daniel called for the creation of a new state from the former Ijebu Province, one of Oba Adetona’s lifelong aspirations, while former Governor Ibikunle Amosun described his death as a national loss. Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Hon. Ladi Adebutu also eulogized him for his wisdom, truthfulness, and nation-building efforts.
The Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu Ode, Olorogun Sunny Kuku, noted the monarch’s global impact through cultural promotion, particularly the annual Ojude Oba Festival.
