The Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was laid to rest on Monday at his private residence in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, following his passing at the age of 91.
The revered monarch was buried in accordance with age-old Ijebu traditions during a solemn and dignified ceremony attended by members of the royal household, esteemed Ijebu high chiefs, and notable figures from across the country.
Among those who paid their final respects were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Ogun Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel, business magnate Aliko Dangote, and renowned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 at just 26 years old and ruled for an extraordinary 64 years—one of the longest reigns in Nigeria’s traditional leadership history. He was widely celebrated for his courageous leadership, firm commitment to tradition, and progressive vision for the Ijebu people.
While the final burial rites were conducted privately, in keeping with cultural customs, hundreds of Ijebu sons and daughters took to the streets and palace surroundings to honour a monarch they hailed as “fearless,” “visionary,” and a steadfast guardian of cultural values and justice.
Born on May 10, 1934, Oba Adetona’s legacy is anchored in his passionate advocacy for the autonomy of traditional institutions, his bold reforms within the Ijebu traditional system, and his unrelenting pursuit of development for his people at both the state and national levels.The Ogun State Government is expected to roll out additional tributes and commemorative activities in his honour in the days ahead.