‎Who Was Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Awujale Of Ijebuland?

‎The Ijebu Kingdom and Nigeria as a whole mourn the loss of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.
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‎The revered monarch, who reigned for 65 years, was one of Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers, leaving behind a legacy of unity, cultural preservation, and transformative development.
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‎His death, coinciding with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, marks a profound moment of grief for the nation.‎

Early Life And Education

‎Born on May 10, 1934, in Imupa, Ijebu-Ode, Oba Sikiru Olukayode Adetona hailed from the Royal House of Anikinaiya, a lineage tracing back to Olu-Iwa and Obanta, legendary founders of the Ijebu Kingdom.
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‎His father, Prince Rufai Adetona Adeleke, was a descendant of Oba Adeleke, Ogbagba Agbotewole I (Awujale from 1895–1906), while his mother, Ajibabi Onashile, came from Ijebu Igbo.
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‎Adetona’s early education took him through Baptist Schools in Ereko, Ijebu-Ode, Ogbere United Primary School in Ijebu-Igbo, and Ansar-Ud-Deen School in Ijebu-Ode between 1943 and 1950.
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‎He later attended Olu-Iwa College (now Adeola Odutola College) from 1951 to 1956.
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‎In 1957, he joined the Audit Department of the Western Region in Ibadan but resigned in 1958 to pursue accountancy studies in the United Kingdom, demonstrating his commitment to education and self-improvement.

Path To The Throne

‎At the age of 26, Prince Sikiru Adetona was selected as the Awujale of Ijebuland, with his appointment approved on January 4, 1960, by the Western Region Governor in Council. His coronation on April 2, 1960, marked the beginning of a transformative era for Ijebuland.
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‎Following a three-month traditional seclusion at the Odo, he was formally presented to the world by Chief Timothy Adeola Odutola, the Ogbeni-Oja, in a historic ceremony that underscored the dawn of a new era for the Ijebu people.
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‎Oba Adetona’s early recognition as a charismatic leader was evident when he was nominated for the presidency of the Western Region House of Chiefs in 1960, a testament to his stature despite his youth.
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‎Though the position went to the older Oba Adesoji Aderemi, the Oni of Ife, Adetona’s nomination highlighted his unique standing among Nigeria’s traditional rulers.
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A Reign Of Transformation

‎Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign was marked by unparalleled contributions to Ijebuland’s cultural, social, and economic development. Known as Ogbagba Agbotewole II, he was a symbol of unity, wisdom, and progress.
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‎Under his leadership, Ijebuland experienced a cultural renaissance, with the Ojude Oba festival gaining global recognition as a vibrant celebration of Ijebu heritage.
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‎His efforts also fostered infrastructural growth, business expansion, and social harmony, transforming Ijebuland into a hub of commerce and tradition.
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‎A first-class monarch with international acclaim, Oba Adetona was a vocal advocate for constitutional roles for traditional rulers in Nigeria.
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‎His outspoken stance on governance, national unity, and ethical leadership made him a respected figure during military regimes and democratic transitions. His influence extended beyond Ijebuland, shaping national discourse on leadership and development.
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Legacy And Contributions

‎Oba Adetona’s commitment to education was profound. In 2021, Olabisi Onabanjo University renamed its School of Governance Studies in his honor, recognizing his lifelong dedication to leadership and learning.
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‎His initiatives in healthcare and economic development further solidified Ijebuland’s reputation as a model of progress in Ogun State.
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‎The monarch’s personal life reflected his deep connection to his people. Married to Iyabo Oke, Modupe Ekundayo, and Oluwakemi Dodo-Williams, he was a father to nine children, leaving a family that continues his legacy within the Anikinaiya dynasty.
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A Lasting Impact

‎Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures in the thriving Ijebu Kingdom and the values he championed. As Nigeria mourns this iconic ruler, his contributions to cultural preservation, education, and ethical governance will continue to inspire future generations.
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‎May his soul rest in peace, and may Ijebuland continue to uphold the timeless values he instilled during his illustrious reign.
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