President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi, paid glowing tributes to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, at his private residence in Ijebu-Ode during the eighth-day Fidau prayer on Sunday.
President Tinubu described the Oba as a towering natural ruler who served with wisdom, dignity, and candor.
Tinubu, who visited Ijebu-Ode on Sunday evening, was accompanied by prominent figures including the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Others are Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and Senators Seriake Dickson, Adeola Olamilekan, Gbenga Daniel and the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
According to Tinubu, the late monarch lived a life of dedicated service, marked by integrity, courage, and unyielding devotion to his people.
Speaking at a private meeting with the widows, children and other members of the immediate family of the late Awujale, Tinubu also described him as his mentor and trusted confidant.
The president thereafter offered prayers at the tomb and extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family on the monarch’s passing.
At the gravesite, Tinubu stood in quiet reflection, praying for the Oba’s eternal peace and honouring his extraordinary legacy.
The solemn gathering drew Islamic clerics, dignitaries, and well-wishers to celebrate a revered traditional ruler who reigned for 65 remarkable years.
Tinubu emphasised that the Awujale was not just a traditional ruler but a personal mentor and confidant of immense value.
“Last Sunday, I lost two men I held dear my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Awujale of Ijebu,” he said.
“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father. He was a guide, a man of truth, and a source of steadying wisdom. For over 60 years on the throne, he led with candour, honour, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to his people,”
After the brief and solemn visit, the President and his entourage proceeded to the Dipo Dina Stadium for the main event where a large crowd had gathered.
Earlier in a heartfelt tribute following his death, Tinubu described the Awujale as a “towering natural ruler.”
“He was a towering natural ruler who served with wisdom, dignity, and a deep commitment to progress,” the President said.
Persecondnews had reported that Oba Adetona, who died at the age of 91, reigned for about 65 years.
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