Nigeria has lost one of its most revered and longest-serving monarchs, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland. He passed away at the age of 91 after an illustrious reign that spanned over six decades.
Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, was a distinguished traditional ruler from the royal House of Anikinaiya. He was widely respected as a forthright voice in national discourse and a strong advocate of good governance, traditional values, and cultural heritage.
A palace source confirmed his death on Sunday to SaharaReporters, stating that the monarch died at a hospital in Lagos. However, due to cultural protocols and official procedures, a public announcement is being delayed pending formalities with the Ogun State Government.
“It is confirmed, but we cannot officially announce it yet. You know he was a prominent king, and such matters must follow due traditional and state procedures,” the source said.
Oba Adetona’s death come just hours after the demise of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London earlier the same day. The two losses have cast a solemn mood across the country.
Throughout his 65-year reign, Oba Adetona was instrumental in modernizing the traditional institution in Nigeria, mentoring younger monarchs and fostering peaceful coexistence in Ijebuland and beyond.
As tributes continue to pour in, the nation awaits an official statement and burial plans from the Ogun State Government and the Ijebu traditional council.
