Awujale, Oba Adetona
Awujale’s departure leaves a void in our hearts – Amb Sarafa Isola
Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola has described the transition of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, as the closing of a monumental chapter in the book of Nigerian history.
Ambassador Isola, Aare Tayese Ago Iwoye, Apesin Isiwo, Ijebu and Nigeria’s immediate past High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, said this on Sunday in a condolence message titled “A Statesman Monarch Ascends: The Iroko Has Fallen in Ijebuland.”
Commiserating with the people of Ijebuland, Governor Dapo Abiodun and the entire people of Ogun State, he said “His departure leaves a void in our hearts, but his extraordinary legacies will forever illuminate the path of Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.”
The full statement reads:
A Statesman Monarch Ascends: The Iroko Has Fallen in Ijebuland – Amb Sarafa Isola
Today, Sunday, 13th July 2025, the earth stood still in Ijebu, and the heavens welcomed one of its finest creations.
It is with a heavy heart and unspeakable grief that I join the entire Ijebu Nation, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large in mourning the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, CFR, Ogbagba II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.
His departure leaves a void in our hearts, but his extraordinary legacies will forever illuminate the path of Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.
Throughout his illustrious reign, Oba Adetona brought global attention to the depth and dignity of Ijebu culture. His reign was a shining example of how tradition and modernity can harmoniously coexist. As the Aare Tayese Ago Iwoye, I mourn him not only as a royal father but as a lighthouse whose moral clarity guided generations of public servants, including myself.
In a world where many wear the crown, Awujale stood out. He challenged tyranny, defended justice, and preserved the soul of our people through wisdom and unwavering integrity. His influence extended beyond palace walls into classrooms, courts, national discourse, and diplomatic tables.
This is more than the end of a reign. It is the closing of a monumental chapter in the book of Nigerian history. And while we mourn, we also rise in tribute—grateful for the decades he gave to truth, justice, and Ijebu identity.
Oba Adetona was a monarch par excellence, a visionary leader, and a custodian of culture whose reign exemplified wisdom, integrity, and dedication to the progress of his people.
His transformative leadership elevated Ijebuland as a beacon of unity, economic development, and cultural preservation.
The Awujale’s commitment to education, exemplified by his endowment of the Oba Sikiru Adetona Professorial Chair in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, underscored his belief in knowledge as a cornerstone of societal advancement.
His establishment of the Ijebu Development Board on Poverty Reduction further demonstrated his passion for uplifting the lives of his people, fostering empowerment and sustainable growth.
As a bridge-builder, Oba Adetona’s influence transcended Ijebuland, earning him respect across Nigeria and beyond. His counsel was sought by leaders at all levels, and his unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and good governance left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
His reign was a testament to the enduring power of traditional institutions in fostering peace, unity, and development in a modern world.
I join His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the people of Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigerians worldwide in mourning the loss of this iconic monarch.
I extend my deepest condolences to the royal family, the Ijebu Traditional Council, and the entire Ijebu community.
May the Almighty grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
As we reflect on Oba Sikiru Adetona’s monumental contributions, let us honor his memory by upholding the values of unity, progress, and service to humanity that defined his reign.
His legacies will continue to inspire generations, and his name will remain etched in the annals of our history as a true father, leader, and custodian of our heritage.
May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, reward his noble deeds, and admit him into the highest ranks of Al-Jannah Firdaus. And may his legacy forever shine like the royal diadem he wore with honour.
Signed:
Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, OFR
Aare Tayese Ago Iwoye, Apesin Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (2021–2023)
About The Author
