Ijebu-Ode ruling house opens up about Awujale’s death

By Paul Dada

The Anikilaya Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode has formally announced the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland.

According to a statement signed by Otunba Abiodun Onanuga, the Otunba Anikilaya of Ijebu, the alte  monarch who was of the ruling house, the  joined his ancestors on Sunday.

The ruling house expressed its appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and other dignitaries for their prompt responses to the news of the monarch’s passing.

The statement described the late Awujale as a legend, a true icon who lived a highly distinguished, exemplary, and dignified life.

The Anikilaya Ruling House noted that the late monarch was a towering figure in Nigeria and a source of pride for the ruling house and the entire Ijebu race. His legacy, the statement added, will remain secured in the annals of the country and Ogun State.

The statement said: “The Anikilaya Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode formally announces that Alayeluwa Oba (Dr) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, JP, Ogbagba II, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland and a most illustrious son of Anikilaya Ruling House has joined his ancestors. His glorious exit occurred yesterday.

“The Anikilaya Ruling House appreciates the prompt responses of the President and Commander in chief, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, the Executive Governor of Ogun State and other Governors, dignitaries and sons and daughters of Ijebuland across the world upon the confirmation of his passing.

“Our revered father was a legend, a true icon who lived a highly distinguished, exemplary and dignified life. As a monarch, he was a towering figure in Nigeria. He was indeed the pride of the ruling house and the entire Ijebu race whose legacies will remain secured in the annals of our country and our state.

“We will appreciate the prayers of everyone for the immediate family, the Anikilaya Ruling House and the entire Ijebuland at this period.”