The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.
The Sultan, who was in the South-West for the coronation of former Oyo State Governor Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, visited the Adetona royal family in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on Saturday.
On arrival, he was received by Prince Saud Adedire Adetona, heir of the royal family, before proceeding to the tomb of the late monarch to offer prayers for the repose of his soul in Al-Jannah Firdaus.
The Sultan was later hosted at a modest reception attended by leading Ijebu personalities, including the Regent of Awujale, Olorogun Dr. Sonny Folorunso Kuku; the Olori Omo Oba Ijebu, Dr. Kunle Hassan; as well as widows and children of the late monarch.
In his welcome remarks, Regent Kuku, who recalled his student days alongside the Sultan at King’s College, Lagos, and Barewa College, Zaria, thanked him for honouring the royal family despite his busy schedule.
“The Sultan’s visit demonstrates the strong bonds of brotherhood and solidarity between our communities,” Kuku said, adding that his presence reinforced the call for peace and unity across Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Sultan described the late Oba Adetona as a leader who left indelible legacies and urged continuous prayers for him.
“Let us remember him in our five daily prayers and on Jumu’ah. They have played their part in this world; it is left for us to build on what they have left behind,” the Sultan said.
He also appealed for peace and unity as Ijebuland prepares to select a new Awujale, praying that Allah grants the people a ruler who will surpass Oba Adetona’s achievements.
“Let us do what will bring peace to our community, our country, and our families. We pray Almighty Allah gives us an Awujale who will unite Ijebuland, the South-West, and Nigeria,” he added.
Oba Adetona, who reigned for over six decades, was Nigeria’s longest-serving first-class monarch before his passing.
