By Muhammad Mamman
On Sunday, 20 July 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embarked on an official visit to Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, to pay his respects to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away on 13 July at the age of 91.
The President’s journey was to attend the eighth-day Fidau prayer, a significant Islamic rite, in memory of the revered monarch. Accompanied by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the President arrived at the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Ilishan-Iperu, Ogun State, at 12:45 pm.
They were warmly received by a distinguished delegation, including Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun and his wife, former Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and prominent traditional rulers and chiefs from Ogun State.
Upon arrival, President Tinubu inspected a guard of honour before proceeding to the Igbeba Family Court in Ijebu-Ode, the ancestral home of the late Awujale. There, he offered prayers at the monarch’s tomb and extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family members of Oba Adetona, acknowledging the profound loss felt by the Ijebu people and the nation at large.
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who was laid to rest on 14 July in accordance with Islamic traditions, reigned for an extraordinary 65 years, making him one of Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers. His tenure was marked by wise counsel, unwavering dedication to his people, and a commanding presence in national discourse, leaving an indelible legacy in Ijebuland and beyond.
The President’s visit underscores the deep respect for Oba Adetona’s contributions to Nigerian society, reflecting the unity and reverence for traditional leadership in the country.
