‘A voice of reason in crisis’ — Tinubu pays tribute to Awujale of Ijebu

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, describing the monarch as a voice of reason in crisis.

In a personally signed statement released on Sunday night, Tinubu said he received news of Adetona’s death with “double pain”, as it coincided with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his immediate predecessor.

“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty,” the president said.

“During his remarkable reign that witnessed tremendous progress in Ijebu-Ode and the entire Ijebuland, he provided uncompromising leadership to his people.”

Adetona died at the age of 91, after reigning for over six decades. He ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 26, and became one of Nigeria’s longest-serving and most respected monarchs.

Tinubu described the Awujale as a wise and dependable leader who stood firmly for unity and justice during periods of national uncertainty.

“In a time of national crisis and uncertainty, he stood firmly as a voice of reason,” Tinubu wrote.

“He was an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without guile. I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering.”

The president also highlighted the monarch’s lasting contributions to governance and education, particularly through the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, funded by the Awujale’s endowment.

“As the nation mourns, I extend my condolences to the family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government, and the people of Ogun State, and sons and daughters of Ijebuland,” he said.

“May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest, and may we be comforted by his legacy of outstanding service.”

Adetona’s reign saw the transformation of Ijebuland into a hub of cultural pride, economic growth and social advancement, with the annual Ojude Oba festival attaining international prominence.

His death marks the end of an era that spanned Nigeria’s independence, civil war, military rule, and the return to democracy.