The Ijebu nation has lost its paramount ruler as Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, passed away at 91 on Sunday just hours after the death of former President, Muhammad Buhari was announced.
The monarch, who was among former President Muhammadu Buhari’s closest traditional allies, reigned for an extraordinary 64 years since his coronation in 1960.
Palace sources confirm the revered king died peacefully in his sleep at his private residence in Ijebu-Ode. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has declared seven days of mourning, ordering flags flown at half-mast statewide.
His unique friendship with Buhari saw the former president frequently visit Ijebu-Ode for private consultations.
In 2021, Buhari honored the monarch with Nigeria’s second-highest national honor (GCON) for “exceptional leadership.”
The late Awujale was renowned for:
- Preserving Ijebu cultural heritage while embracing modernity
- His famous 2015 confrontation with OBJ over Yoruba history
- Establishing Africa’s most prestigious traditional stool endowment
Governor Abiodun described him as “the wisest counselor any leader could wish for.” The Ogun State Traditional Council will announce burial plans following ancient Ijebu customs.
The throne’s succession process begins after mandatory traditional rites, with the Anikinaiya Ruling House next in line.
