Startrend International Magazine For Your Latest News And Entertainment Gists
BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
IJEBU-ODE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has paid glowing tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing him as a distinguished symbol of pride for Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large.
Oba Adetona, who was crowned in 1960, held the remarkable title of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarch.
He died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, and was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites at his residence, Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, on Monday, July 14, 2025.
Speaking at the monarch’s burial, Governor Abiodun highlighted the immense transformation that took place in Ijebuland during Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign.
He praised the monarch for preserving the dignity and heritage of the Ijebu people throughout his tenure.
The governor also noted Oba Adetona’s passion for education, citing his instrumental role in establishing a professorial Chair in good governance.
He also credited the late king with the transformation of the Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona School of Governance Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University into a full-fledged campus affiliated with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru.
“This groundbreaking initiative not only reflects Kabiyesi’s visionary leadership”, the governor stated, “but also positions Ogun State as a beacon for policy development and high-level public service training across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.”
Governor Abiodun described the late monarch as a tireless advocate for human capital development.
He recalled his leadership of the Ijebu Development Board on Poverty and Education and applauded his philanthropic legacy.
“Baba was more than a traditional ruler; he was a phenomenon. His reign wasn’t just long – it was impactful, marked by integrity, generosity, selflessness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to progress and peace”, the governor said.
Abiodun further praised Oba Adetona as a wise and principled leader, a man of great intellect and moral clarity who led with courage and transparency.
“He was an incorruptible monarch, equitable in judgment, deeply philosophical, and wholly committed to Nigeria’s unity”, he added.
Reflecting on the monarch’s impactful life, Governor Abiodun credited him for supporting legislative reforms in the state’s traditional institution.
Notably, he acknowledged Oba Adetona’s influence in the passage of laws granting traditional rulers the right to choose their burial rites.
“The law was not only passed – it was signed right in Kabiyesi’s palace,” he revealed. “His legacy stretches across tradition, national policy, education, philanthropy, and community harmony. A true titan of history and a faithful servant of his people.”
The governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for bestowing on Oba Adetona the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), describing it as a fitting acknowledgment of the monarch’s contribution to national growth.
Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba in his own remarks, noted that the Awujale remained vibrant and mentally alert until his final moments.
He remarked that the monarch must have passed on fulfilled, having seen many of his dreams realized.
Also paying his own tribute, the Billionaire industrialist, Aliko Dangote described the late monarch’s 91-year lifespan as remarkable.
Dangote recounted their close personal relationship and the wisdom he had gained from him over the years.
The funeral ceremony attracted an impressive array of dignitaries from across the country. Among those in attendance were former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani, as well as former governors Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun, and James Ibori.
Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi and representing Ogun West Senatorial District and Hon. Ladi Adebutu also joined thousands of mourners at the solemn event to pay his last respects to the revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.
