The late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was laid to rest on Sunday, July 13, 2025, with Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, describing the revered monarch as a towering figure in the history of Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional ruler, holding sway for 65 years until his passing.
Speaking at the burial held at Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, Governor Abiodun paid glowing tribute to the late monarch, praising his immense contributions to the development of Ijebuland and his firm commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of his people.
“Oba Adetona was a beacon of honour and a steadfast guardian of our ancestral legacy,” the governor said. “His reign brought exceptional growth to Ijebuland and positioned Ogun State as a cradle of innovation in governance and education.”
Governor Abiodun noted that the late monarch’s passion for education was demonstrated by his establishment of a professorial chair on good governance and his instrumental role in upgrading the Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University into a full-fledged campus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru.
“This milestone not only celebrates Kabiyesi’s foresight but also elevates Ogun State as a hub for policy innovation and elite public service training across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa,” the governor added.
Abiodun recalled Oba Adetona’s philanthropic endeavours, particularly through the Ijebu Development Board on Poverty and Education, which he chaired, describing the monarch as a generous mentor, a patriot, and a symbol of incorruptible leadership.
“Baba was not just a king. He was an institution. His rule was defined by deep intellect, moral clarity, and a lifetime of principled service,” he said. “He was a philosopher, a just leader, and a monarch whose integrity earned him the trust and respect of all.”
The governor also credited the late Awujale for his pivotal role in shaping the state’s legal reforms regarding traditional institutions. He highlighted that the recent law granting monarchs the right to choose their burial rites was passed and signed at the Awujale’s palace.
“This legislation was dear to Kabiyesi’s heart. Signing it in his palace was symbolic of his enduring influence and commitment to modernising traditional governance in line with individual dignity,” he noted.
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for bestowing on the late monarch the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), one of the nation’s highest honours, acknowledging it as a fitting recognition of Oba Adetona’s contributions to national progress.
Paying his respects, former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, said the Awujale remained spirited and energetic till his final days, adding that he departed knowing his wishes were fulfilled.
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, lauded the monarch’s life, describing his 91-year journey as remarkable and sharing a personal reflection on his close relationship with the royal father.
The burial ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mr Bosun Tijani; and former governors Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun and James Ibori, among others.
Oba Adetona’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy, marked by integrity, courage, and visionary leadership, continues to resonate across Nigeria.
