Francesca Odimgbe
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the passing of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, as a great loss to Nigeria, particularly the traditional institution.
He said the departure of Oba Adetona, who he described as one of the oldest traditional rulers in Nigeria, marked the end of an era in the country, especially in Ijebuland, where he ruled for 65 years.
The Governor, in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the late Awujale’s service to the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State would remain his enduring legacy.
The Governor described Oba Adetona as an icon, a hero and a respected monarch who served his subjects passionately and contributed to the political, economic and social development and growth of Ijebuland.
Sanwo-Olu, commiserated with his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the deceased family and the entire people of Ijebuland and Ogun State over the passing of the paramount ruler.
He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I commiserate with my brother, Governor Dapo Abiodun; the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State; the traditional institution; and the deceased family, on the transition of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who joined his ancestors same day as the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR.
“The passing of Oba Adetona, who ruled for 65 years, is an end to a glorious era and remarkable reign of an outstanding traditional ruler in Ijebuland and Nigeria. His passage to the Great Beyond was a great loss to the people of Ijebu, and he will be greatly missed.
“Oba Sikiru Adetona made positive impacts during his lifetime. He contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of Ijebuland. He worked for the interest of the people during his lifetime, earning the respect of his subjects.
“I pray that Almighty God be pleased with the soul of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona and grant the royal family and the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”