Nigeria came together in solemn unity as the remains of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, were laid to rest on Sunday, July 13, 2025. The respected monarch, who reigned for 65 years, was buried at his private Ogbagba Court in Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, in line with Islamic rites.

Dignitaries from across the nation, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, business mogul Aliko Dangote, and past governors like Segun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun, paid their last respects to a king many described as a symbol of tradition, intellect, and progressive leadership.

Governor Abiodun, while paying tribute to the late monarch, described Oba Adetona as “a towering figure who bestrode the traditional institution like a colossus.” According to him, “Kabiyesi was not just a monarch; he was a visionary, a philanthropist, and a passionate reformer who left behind an enduring legacy of progress, wisdom, and justice.”

The governor highlighted the monarch’s deep commitment to education and policy development. “It was Kabiyesi who initiated the professorial chair on good governance and saw to the transformation of the School of Governance Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University into a full-fledged campus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies,” he said.

Governor Abiodun also recalled how the Awujale played a pivotal role in the reform of traditional rulership laws in Ogun State. “Kabiyesi championed the law that allows monarchs to choose how they wish to be buried. I had the honour of signing that bill into law right in his palace,” he said.

Oba Adetona was remembered as a monarch who blended tradition with modernity, often described as a philosopher-king. “He was principled, transparent, incorruptible, and deeply committed to the unity of the Nigerian state,” Abiodun added.

Former Governor Olusegun Osoba also praised the Awujale for his active lifestyle even in old age. “Kabiyesi remained mentally alert and in control of his affairs till his last breath,” he said.

In his tribute, Aliko Dangote spoke of their personal bond, calling Oba Adetona a father figure and mentor. “To live to 91 years and remain relevant till the end is no ordinary feat,” Dangote said.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier honoured the late monarch with the prestigious national award of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), a gesture Governor Abiodun said reflects “a recognition of Kabiyesi’s immense contributions to national development.”

Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarch. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era in the history of Ijebuland and traditional leadership in Nigeria.