……….Says he was an epitome of wisdom.
Emmanuel lkpeama
Barrister Kayode Ademiluyi, Director General and Convener of APC Unity Global has extended his heartfelt condolences to the people of Ijebu land following the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, who died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.
In a condolence message signed by the Convener,Ademiluyi expressed his sympathies to the Nigerian people over the loss of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who coincidentally passed away around the same time.
Investigator news reports that barely hours after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari was announced, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, also passed away at the age of 91.
The DG noted that Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona who reigned for 65 years, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in Nigerian history, ascending to the throne on April 2, 1960, at the age of 26, played a vital role in preserving Ijebu’s cultural heritage and traditions, earning him recognition beyond Yorubaland, noting that he was known for his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to promoting Ijebu culture and unity.
“It is indeed double sadness that Oba Adetona joined his ancestors the same day that the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, died in the United Kingdom,”
“Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was a remarkable royal father, who ascended the throne in 1960, marking the beginning of a transformative era for Ijebuland. Throughout his reign, he was a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development,”
“he was a voice of reason during national crises and used his position to promote unity and progress,”
“As we mourn his passing, let us celebrate the extraordinary life of Oba Adetona and honour his contributions to our country.”
” His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people will forever be etched in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to uphold the values he instilled in us during his illustrious reign,” he said
Investigator news gathered that Oba Adetona was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs, serving as the Awujale of Ijebuland from 1960 until his death in 2025.
Born on 10 May 1934 in Ijebu Ode, he came from the Royal House of Anikinaiya and was a descendant of Oba Adeleke and Oba Gbelegbuwa.
The Awujale is the traditional ruler of the Ijebu people in Ogun State and holds one of the most respected royal titles in Yorubaland. The position rotates among four ruling houses—Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote. Oba Adetona, from the Anikinaiya house, became the 50th Awujale when he was crowned on 2 April 1960.
Before becoming king at age 26, he studied at Olu-Iwa College in Ijebu Ode and later travelled to the UK to study accountancy after briefly working in the Western Region’s Audit Department. His selection and confirmation as king followed due traditional and legal process.
During his time as ruler, Oba Adetona received several Nigerian presidents and national leaders.
Notably, former President Goodluck Jonathan visited him in 2015, followed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016. In May 2024, President Bola Tinubu honoured the Awujale with Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), in celebration of his 90th birthday.
The Awujale of Ijebu land was widely respected for his wisdom, modern outlook, and leadership. He played a strong role in traditional and national affairs, including serving in the Western Region House of Chiefs, and remained a prominent voice for unity and development throughout his 65-year reign.
He was buried on Monday 14, July 2025,at Ogbagba Court Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
