The remains of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, were laid to rest on Monday at his private residence in Igbeba, Ijebu Ode, in a solemn ceremony conducted according to Islamic rites. The revered monarch passed away on Sunday at age 91, after a record 65-year reign.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and business mogul Aliko Dangote, gathered to pay their last respects. President Bola Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola.
Security was tight as personnel from the Police, Army, DSS, Civil Defence, and Amotekun cordoned off the burial area to prevent disruption after traditionalists attempted to intervene. They were swiftly escorted out by armed soldiers.
Governor Abiodun described Oba Adetona as a father figure and philanthropist who stood by him in private and public moments. Senator Gbenga Daniel called the late king a fearless and honest leader whose absence would leave a void in Ijebuland.
PDP’s Ladi Adebutu and Olorogun Sunny Kuku praised the monarch’s legacy of cultural pride, notably through the annual Ojude Oba Festival. Chief Bode George, reflecting on both the monarch’s death and that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, spoke on mortality as a humbling force.
In honour of the late Awujale, major markets in Ijebu Ode—including Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje—were closed, as announced by the local government chairman, Dare Alebiosu. The closure was in line with cultural traditions, allowing residents to mourn a revered ruler whose legacy will long endure.
