Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, dies at 91 after 65 years on the throne
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced the passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The revered monarch died on Saturday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland. Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today… leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general,” Governor Abiodun said in a statement from Abeokuta on Sunday.
The governor noted that the monarch’s death came on the same day as that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died at the age of 82 in a London hospital.
“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,” Abiodun stated.
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 and ruled for 65 years, earning widespread respect for his wisdom, leadership, and progressive vision.
“Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was a remarkable royal father… a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development,” Abiodun said. He also credited the late monarch for driving improvements in education, healthcare, and the local economy.
“Under his guidance, Ijebuland witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure and community development… The Ojude Oba festival attained international status under his leadership.”
President Bola Tinubu also paid tribute, calling Oba Adetona “a towering natural ruler” who served with honour and used his influence to promote peace and good governance. Tinubu highlighted the monarch’s role in national unity and praised his support for education, particularly through his endowment at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
“May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest,” Tinubu said, offering condolences to the royal family and the people of Ogun State.
Born on May 10, 1934, in Ijebu Ode, Oba Adetona hailed from the Anikinaiya royal house and became the 50th Awujale on April 2, 1960. Educated at Olu-Iwa College and trained in accountancy in the UK, he became king at the age of 26, following due traditional and legal processes.
During his long reign, he welcomed numerous Nigerian leaders, including Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Bola Tinubu. In 2024, President Tinubu honoured him with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award.
Oba Adetona was regarded as one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning and most respected traditional rulers. His reign was marked by his modern outlook, deep commitment to cultural values, and consistent advocacy for unity and development.
