By kolawole Abraham
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91. Speaking during the eighth-day fidau held for the late monarch at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Tinubu recalled the Awujale’s prediction of his victory in the 2023 presidential election.
The president described Oba Adetona as a leader of “conscience and dignity” who was committed to the pursuit of truth and justice.
Tinubu said, “Today marks a very great day in the history of our nation and particularly the history of our race, the Yoruba race. You can find any further definition of our culture. If you go further from Awujale, you will learn a lot.”
Tinubu also recalled the Awujale’s quiet but impactful role in the country’s democratic journey, describing him as a steadfast supporter of the June 12 struggle. “He was always there in times of need for all of us. I could recount the June 12 episode; our protests and its balance and for real, our resistance. Our determination to reverse the annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election. Baba was steadfast, he was resolute and very encouraging,” the president said.
Speaking during the event the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the late Awujale as a voice of the voiceless and a revered patriarch.
Abiodun said, “Kabiyesi was the voice of the voiceless and a revered patriarch. His reign brought prestige to our land and dignity to the Yoruba race. Under his leadership, Ijebuland witnessed unprecedented transformation.”
Paying Tribute to the hate Monarch, the leader of the Pan-Igbo socio-cultural group in Ijebu-Ode, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr. Udu Chukwu, said the Igbo community enjoyed peace and prosperity during the reign of the departed traditional ruler. Udu Chukwu, who is the Onowu Ndigbo of Ijebu Ode, said he has been living in Ijebuland for over 30 years without problem, adding that their Igbo businessmen thrive in Ijebuland.
The president further urged politicians, as well as sons and daughters of Ijebuland, to be “more united, bonded by the spirit that he left behind, cherish his legacies.” Tinubu also commended the late Awujale’s commitment to truth and justice, saying, “Very honest, very bold and very truthful, he would not deceive you.”
The stadium was filled to the brim with indigenes who adorned traditional and modern attires, reflecting the cultural richness of Ijebuland. Major markets such as Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje were temporarily shut to enable full participation in the farewell ceremonies. Traditional drums echoed, with local groups performing chants and dances in tributes.