President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has acknowledged the significant contributions of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, to his success in the 2023 presidential election.
President Tinubu made the statement during his tribute at the 8th Day Fidau prayer for the late Oba Adetona, held at the Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji; the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; and the Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq.
Also present were the Deputy Governors of Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo states; former governors Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun; members of the National Assembly; the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly; ministers; traditional rulers; and other notable personalities.
President Tinubu also recalled the Awujale’s unwavering support for the revalidation of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election won by Chief MKO Abiola.
“The Awujale was always there for us. He supported us during the June 12 annulment. He was steadfast and resolute. He was very honest, bold, courageous, and truthful. He would not deceive you,” the President said.
According to Tinubu, the late Awujale was a pride of the Yoruba race. In addition to his truthfulness, the monarch was known for his courage, boldness, and integrity in supporting causes he believed were just.
The President added that Oba Adetona brought dignity to the Yoruba people, and that Yoruba history would be incomplete without acknowledging his contributions.
While thanking God for granting the late monarch long life—he lived up to 91 years—Tinubu commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his care for the Awujale. He urged the people to unite and uphold the legacies the late Oba left behind.
Earlier in his remarks, Governor Abiodun described the Awujale as a moral compass whose reign brought unprecedented development to Ijebuland.
According to him, the late Oba not only upheld the dignity and culture of Ijebuland but also gave a voice to the less privileged and mentored many. He added that Oba Adetona made a lasting impact during his lifetime.
The governor noted that the Awujale was a man of unwavering faith who used his position to unite people across religious divides, thus promoting religious harmony in Ijebuland and Ogun State at large.
Abiodun called on the people to reflect on the life and legacy of the Awujale and remain peaceful for the continued development of the state and the nation.
