Nigeria has lost one of its most revered traditional rulers. Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland and spiritual head of the Ijebu people, has passed away at the age of 91.
The highly respected monarch, who reigned for over 64 years, reportedly died peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a private hospital in Lagos.
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His death came just hours after the passing of his close friend and former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, marking a profoundly sorrowful day in Nigeria’s history.
End of an Era: Nigeria Loses a Monarch, a Moral Voice, and a National Icon
Oba Adetona was more than just a traditional ruler. He was a symbol of integrity, cultural preservation, leadership excellence, and national conscience.
Having ascended the throne in 1960, the same year Nigeria gained independence, the Awujale’s life story mirrored the nation’s evolution.
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At just 26 years old, he became king and would go on to transform Ijebu Kingdom into one of the most developed and culturally cohesive regions in Nigeria.
His demise represents the end of an era—not only for the Ijebu people but also for Nigeria’s traditional institution.
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Oba Sikiru Adetona was born on May 10, 1934, and became Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland on April 2, 1960. For over six decades, he ruled with wisdom, restraint, and a firm commitment to the advancement of his people.
Oba Adetona was a close confidant of several Nigerian leaders, but none more enduring than President Muhammadu Buhari, who also passed away on the same day.
Their friendship, rooted in mutual respect and shared values, spanned over four decades. Both men were seen as conservative icons, known for their straightforwardness, disdain for corruption, and belief in national unity.
The back-to-back demise of these elder statesmen has cast a sombre shadow across the country, with many describing it as a double blow to Nigeria’s moral and leadership compass.
Champion of Leadership and Education
In 2021, the Olabisi Onabanjo University honoured the Awujale by renaming its School of Governance Studies after him — a testament to his lifelong commitment to leadership, education, and good governance.
He was a strong advocate for the involvement of traditional rulers in policy matters and consistently contributed to national discourse, especially during military regimes and political transitions.
