By Njoku Chijioke
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of the Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, describing him as an iconic and dignified monarch whose 65-year reign was marked by selfless leadership and a commitment to progress.
Oba Adetona died on Sunday at the age of 91, just hours after the passing of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a personally signed tribute, President Tinubu said the monarch’s death had created a “huge vacuum within traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria.”
He praised the late king’s steadfast leadership, which brought remarkable unity and transformation to Ijebu-Ode and the larger Ijebu nation.
“His reign brought notable progress and transformation to Ijebu-Ode and the Ijebu community through his steadfast leadership and vision for his people,” Tinubu said.
The President recalled his close relationship with Oba Adetona, saying, “I found his presence comforting, his wisdom enlightening, and his honesty deeply empowering.”
He extended condolences to the royal family, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the people of Ijebuland, praying for the late monarch’s peaceful repose and for strength to carry on his enduring legacy.
President Tinubu also highlighted Oba Adetona’s contributions to education and public service, particularly noting the School of Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, which bears testament to his lifelong commitment to development and philanthropy.
