Alebiosu pays tribute to late Awujale, Buhari, urges unity in mourning

Otunba Busura Alebiosu, Chairman of the Council of Otunbas of Ijebu-land, has expressed profound grief over the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebu-land, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

In a statement issued on Monday, July 14, 2025, on behalf of the Council, Alebiosu described the late monarch as a transformative figure whose reign reshaped Nigeria’s traditional institutions.

“The Awujale was not just a king to the Ijebus, he was the soul of a people, the custodian of our heritage, and a global icon of integrity,” Alebiosu said.

He praised Oba Adetona’s decades-long leadership, noting, “His long and impactful reign, marked by fearlessness, intellect, and modernization, will remain an inspiration to generations unborn.”

Alebiosu acknowledged the immense void left by the monarch’s death, urging Ijebu people worldwide to honor his legacy by embodying his values of service and patriotism.

“We are consoled by the indelible legacy he leaves behind — one of service, truth, and unflinching patriotism,” he added.

Alebiosu also extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on the same day.

“President Buhari was a statesman whose contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, national security, and infrastructural development will be remembered,” he stated, emphasizing that Buhari’s death is “a great loss not only to the nation but to all lovers of peace and progress.”

Addressing the dual national mourning, Alebiosu prayed for strength and wisdom for President Tinubu, encouraging Nigerians to unite in reflection and prayer.

He concluded by calling for resilience, stating, “As a people, we must draw strength from our shared history and march forward with the courage our departed leaders exemplified.”