A Tribute to a Visionary Leader
President Bola Tinubu paid heartfelt homage to the late Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to the Yoruba race and the nation as a whole. The late monarch was described as an exemplary traditional leader who brought immense honor, dignity, and pride to the Yoruba people across the globe.
Tinubu highlighted the support that Oba Adetona provided during his campaign for the presidency in 2023, emphasizing that the Yoruba history would have been incomplete without his victory. He also recognized the late monarch as a courageous democrat and a reliable ally who stood by the efforts to reverse the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which many believe was won by the late MKO Abiola.
Oba Adetona passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, and was laid to rest on Monday, July 14, 2025, at his Ijebu Ode GRA residence, following Islamic rites. During the eight-day Fidau prayers held for the repose of the traditional ruler at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, Tinubu, accompanied by his wife, Oluremi, and several governors from the Southwest, shared his deep appreciation for the late monarch’s influence.
“Our history would not have been completed if I had failed in the last election,” Tinubu said. “I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale. He blessed me and told me I would win that election and be returned to office.”
He reflected on the late monarch’s wisdom and the impact he had on the nation, noting that Oba Adetona lived to be 91 years old and was honored with the GCON title during his 90th birthday. Tinubu praised his honesty, boldness, and courage, stating that the late monarch never deceived anyone.
The President emphasized the importance of continuing to build on the legacy of the late Awujale, encouraging unity and peace among the people. He called on everyone to cherish the values represented by the late monarch and to reflect on the culture he upheld.
Governor Dapo Abiodun also spoke highly of Oba Adetona, describing him as a distinguished and irreplaceable leader who redefined traditional institutions. He highlighted the monarch’s transformative impact over 65 years of leadership and his role as a voice for the voiceless and a fearless conscience of the nation.
Abiodun urged the people of Ijebu Ode and Ijebu land to embrace religious harmony and unity, ensuring the progress championed by the late Awujale continued. He encouraged the community to honor the late monarch through actions that reflect his values.
The Fidau prayers were led by Sheikh Jamiu Bello, supported by other Muslim clerics and leaders. Prof Emeritus Kamaldeen Balogun, the Chief Imam of Gbagura, called on political leaders to emulate the late Oba Adetona, emphasizing his godliness and commitment to justice.
Other dignitaries present included former governors of Ogun State, highlighting the significance of the event and the widespread respect for the late monarch.
In a separate development, the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Dare Alebiosu, announced the reopening of major markets that had been closed since the mourning period began. He clarified that there was no directive for the markets to remain closed for 75 days, calling such reports false. The markets, including Ita Osu, Ita Ale, and Oke Aje, will resume full operations on Monday, July 21, 2025.
