President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid heartfelt tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing him as more than a royal father — a confidante, guide, and man of integrity.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Tinubu said the monarch’s death, which occurred the same day as that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was a deeply personal loss.
“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father to me. He was a confidante, a guide, and a man of truth whose wisdom never failed to steady those who sought it,” the President wrote.
He praised Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign, noting his “rare dignity, candour, and courage,” and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people.
President Tinubu was present in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday to attend the monarch’s eighth-day Fidau prayers. He described the Oba’s passing as a major loss to Yorubaland and Nigeria’s traditional institution.
“His voice, leadership, and generosity will echo far beyond Ijebuland,” Tinubu said, praying for Allah to grant the departed monarch Aljannah Firdaus and to comfort all who mourn him.