Nigerian President Bola Tinubu travelled to Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State to pay his final respects to Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the late Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu Land, who died earlier this month aged 91.

The revered monarch, who ascended the throne in 1960, reigned for 65 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigerian history. His passing marks the end of an era for the Ijebu people and the wider Yoruba community

The announcement was made by the special assistant to the president on social media, Dada Olusegun on his A page.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has left Abuja for Ijebu-Ode to attend the eighth-day prayer ceremony for the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona’

Tinubu, who shared a longstanding personal relationship with the monarch, joined dignitaries, traditional rulers, and citizens at a tribute ceremony in honour of the late king.

In a statement released prior to his departure from Abuja, the president described Oba Adetona as “a towering figure in the annals of Nigerian royalty, a father figure, confidant, and patriot who embodied dignity, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty to his people.”

Throughout his reign, Oba Adetona played an active role in Nigeria’s national affairs, speaking out in favour of justice, democratic principles, and accountable governance.