The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has died at the age of 91.
The revered monarch passed away on Sunday, only hours after the announcement of the death of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Details of Oba Adetona’s passing remain scant as at press time, but palace sources confirmed that the monarch died peacefully after a brief illness.
Born on May 10, 1934, Sikiru Kayode Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, making him one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers.
Over his 65-year reign, he was widely respected for his wisdom, candour, and advocacy for good governance and development in Ogun State and beyond.
Oba Adetona was a close confidant of many national leaders, including former President Buhari, who passed away earlier on Sunday at a London hospital.
Their friendship reportedly spanned decades, rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences during Nigeria’s turbulent political history.
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Tributes have begun pouring in from political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens mourning the loss of the monarch.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun described Oba Adetona as “a towering figure of integrity, courage, and service whose reign brought unprecedented progress to Ijebuland.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Awujale’s palace in the coming days.
Oba Adetona is remembered not only as a traditional ruler, but also as a philanthropist and statesman whose influence transcended the boundaries of his kingdom.
His death marks the end of an era in Ijebuland, leaving a vacuum in traditional leadership and the socio-political landscape of the region.