President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most revered and impactful traditional rulers.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960 at the young age of 26, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after more than 65 years of distinguished and dignified service to his people and country.
President Tinubu, in a heartfelt statement issued late Sunday, said he received the news of the monarch’s death with “double pain,” as it coincided with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He described the death of Oba Adetona as a monumental loss to Yorubaland and Nigeria’s traditional institution.
“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” Tinubu said. “During his remarkable reign that witnessed tremendous progress and development in Ijebu-Ode and the entire Ijebuland, Oba Adetona provided uncompromising leadership to his people.”
President Tinubu noted that beyond his role as a royal father, Oba Adetona was a statesman and a voice of reason in national affairs, who consistently promoted unity, peace, and progress in Nigeria. He highlighted the monarch’s philanthropic spirit and unwavering commitment to education, particularly through the establishment of the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye.
“I enjoyed an excellent personal relationship with Kabiyesi. He was an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile. I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering,” the President added.
As Nigeria mourns the passing of the legendary monarch, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the Awujale’s family, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government and people of Ogun State, and all sons and daughters of Ijebuland.
“May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest, and may we be comforted by his legacy of outstanding service,” President Tinubu concluded.
Oba Sikiru Adetona was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs and widely regarded as a reformer within the traditional institution. Tributes from across the country and beyond are expected in the coming days, as preparations begin for a fitting farewell to the iconic ruler.
