President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday, July 20, for the eighth-day Fidau prayer in honour of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.
The revered monarch passed away on July 13 at the age of 91 and was buried the following day at his private residence in Igbeba, Ijebu-Ode, in accordance with Islamic rites.
His death marked the end of a 65-year reign—one of the longest in Nigeria’s traditional history.
Earlier in the day, the president and First Lady visited the Oba’s residence, where they offered prayers at his tomb and met with members of the royal family.
“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father to me. He was a confidante, a guide, and a man of truth,” Tinubu said in a personal tribute.
A Gathering of Leaders and Tributes
The Fidau prayer drew a large crowd of mourners, including governors, senators, traditional rulers, and Islamic clerics.
Among those present were Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and Senators Seriake Dickson and Gbenga Daniel.
Also in attendance were former governors Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as top officials from the National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council.
The prayer session was led by renowned Islamic scholar and emeritus professor, Kamaldeen Balogun. Clerics offered prayers for the late monarch’s soul and praised his legacy of peace, unity, and fearless leadership.
A Monarch’s Legacy
Oba Adetona ascended the throne in 1960 and became a symbol of principled leadership and Yoruba cultural pride. He was known for his bold advocacy during the June 12 crisis and his unwavering support for democratic values.
President Tinubu recalled a personal encounter with the Awujale during the 2023 election campaign. “He told me, ‘You are winning that election and you will win a second term. Go ahead.’ That assurance meant so much to me,” Tinubu said.
Governor Abiodun described the late monarch as “a moral compass whose reign brought unprecedented development to Ijebuland.” He urged citizens to reflect on the Awujale’s life and uphold his values of unity and service.
The president concluded his tribute with a prayer: “May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort all who mourn him.”
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