Here are 10 key things to know about Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who recently passed away at age 91, and his connection to former President Buhari:
1. Passed Away on July 13, 2025
Oba Adetona died peacefully at 91 years old, just hours after Buhari’s death was announced
2. Ascended the Throne in 1960
He became Awujale on April 2, 1960, the same year Nigeria became a republic, marking the start of his remarkably long reign
3. One of Nigeria’s Longest-reigning Monarchs
He served for over 65 years, becoming one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigeria
4. Close Friendship with Muhammadu Buhari
Their friendship began in the 1980s, formed under unique political circumstances, including Buhari’s 1983 coup that halted an earlier attempt to depose Adetona
5. Saved from Deposition by Buhari’s Coup
Just before Buhari’s coup, Ogun State’s governor had planned to depose him in January 1984—but the coup intervened and indirectly preserved his reign
6. Beacon of Cultural Preservation
He was praised for elevating Ojude Oba, Ijebuland’s signature cultural festival, to international prominence, strengthening community pride and unity
7. Promoter of Development
Under his leadership, Ijebuland saw major advances in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, serving as a model for regional development
8. Formally Honored in Education
In 2021, Olabisi Onabanjo University named its School of Governance and Postgrad Studies after him in recognition of his contributions to governance and leadership
9. President Tinubu Mourns ‘Double Pain’
President Tinubu expressed “double pain” at his death, calling it a devastating loss that left a “huge void” in national and traditional leadership
10. Legacy as an Honest, Principled Leader
Renowned for his bluntness, integrity, and being a voice of reason, he was respected by leaders and citizens alike for serving with wisdom and digni
