The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), has expressed deep sadness over the demise of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91 after a historic 65-year reign.
In a condolence message issued to the late monarch’s immediate family, the people of Ijebuland, and the entire Ogun State, Senator Adeola described the Awujale’s passing as an irreparable loss, marking the end of a glorious and impactful reign.
Senator Adeola eulogised Oba Adetona as a principled and visionary traditional ruler who played a pivotal role in the socio-economic, cultural, and political development of Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole. He noted that the late monarch’s legacy would be felt for decades to come.
“I received the news of the transition of the revered Awujale, Oba Adetona, Ogbagba II, with shock and sadness,” the senator stated. “From my close encounters with him in his palace, he stood out as a royal father who tolerated no injustice in any form. His national reputation as a principled monarch was evident in his fearless opposition to military dictatorship and all forms of oppression during his reign. He was a development-oriented royal father who championed the economic growth of his people and Ogun State.”
Senator Adeola also highlighted the cultural impact of Oba Adetona’s reign, particularly the transformation of the annual Ojude Oba festival into a globally recognised celebration of Yoruba heritage. He described the late Awujale’s leadership as a model for traditional rulers, emphasising how he effectively used his royal authority to foster societal progress and the common good.
The senator concluded his tribute with a prayer, asking God to grant the monarch’s family the strength to bear the loss and for the peaceful repose of the departed king’s soul.
The statement was signed by Chief Kayode Odunaro, Media Adviser to Senator Adeola, on **July 14, 2025
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