... As Osinbajo, Abiodun, Sanwo-Olu, Dangote, Osoba, Others Bid Him Farewell
By Princess Adeola Shittu
It was a day of solemn tribute, cultural dignity, and heartfelt memories as dignitaries from across Nigeria converged on Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, to pay final respects to the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.
The revered monarch, who ascended the throne in 1960, was laid to rest at Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, in line with his wishes and the provisions of the reformed traditional burial law, a policy he personally championed.
Speaking at the interment ceremony, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the late Awujale as "a pride of Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole." He noted that Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign marked an era of unmatched progress, dignity, and visionary leadership.
“Baba was a phenomenon, a monarch like no other… His reign was not only defined by longevity but by his towering influence, intellect, and deep commitment to national development,” Governor Abiodun said.
Highlighting the monarch’s lasting legacies, the governor praised his role in establishing the Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University and facilitating its elevation into a full-fledged campus under the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
Oba Adetona’s contribution to education and poverty alleviation, including chairing the Ijebu Development Board on Poverty and Education, also received accolades.
“His life was a rich tapestry of impact in tradition, national discourse, education, philanthropy, and social harmony,” the governor added, noting that the monarch also inspired legislative reforms that now allow traditional rulers in Ogun State to be buried according to their personal wishes.
In recognition of his immense contributions, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently awarded the monarch one of Nigeria’s highest national honours — Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) — a posthumous symbol of national gratitude.
Others present included: Former Ogun Governors Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun, Ministers Gboyega Oyetola (Marine & Blue Economy) and Bosun Tijani (Digital Economy), Senator Yayi, Former Delta State Governor James Ibori, Traditional rulers, religious leaders, and a large number of citizens from within and beyond Ogun State
