The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, has passed away at the age of 91.
He died on Sunday, just hours after the death of his close friend and former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari.
Here are seven important things to know about the late traditional ruler:
- Early Life and Education
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was born on May 10, 1934, in Imupa, Ijebu-Ode. He attended Baptist and Ansar-Ud-Deen schools before proceeding to Olu-Iwa College (now Adeola Odutola College). He later travelled to the United Kingdom to study Accountancy. - Royal Heritage and Ascension to the Throne
He hailed from the Anikinaiya Royal House, one of the four ruling houses in Ijebuland. While studying abroad, he was selected to succeed the late Oba Daniel Robertson Adesanya Gbelegbuwa II, and was formally installed as the Awujale on April 2, 1960. This marked the beginning of one of the longest reigns by any monarch in Nigeria’s history — over 65 years. - Visionary Leadership and Modern Approach
Oba Adetona was widely known for blending tradition with modern governance. He led Ijebuland with foresight and integrity, attracting development and building bridges between tradition and progress. His leadership style was admired across Nigeria. - Rejuvenation of Regberegbe System
During his reign, he revitalised the Regberegbe (age-grade) system — a traditional community structure — turning it into a strong platform for grassroots development, civic responsibility, and social harmony among Ijebu indigenes. - Promotion of Ojude Oba Festival
The late monarch played a key role in transforming the annual Ojude Oba festival into an internationally recognised event. The festival now draws thousands of local and international tourists, and serves as a celebration of Ijebu culture and unity. - Contributions to Education and Governance
He established the Oba Sikiru Adetona Professorial Chair in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye. This led to the founding of the Oba Sikiru Adetona Institute for Governance Studies, a landmark centre for public policy and academic research. - Legacy, Family and National Influence
Oba Adetona was widely respected across Nigeria and often consulted by national leaders for advice. He was known for his courage, wisdom, and outspokenness. He is survived by his three wives — Iyabo Oke, Modupe Ekundayo, and Oluwakemi Dodo-Williams — as well as many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Oba Adetona’s reign will be remembered for strengthening Ijebuland’s cultural identity while contributing meaningfully to national development and good governance.
