The 40th-day Fidau prayer for the late Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, CON, GCON, Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, was held yesterday at his Igbeba residence in Ijebu-Ode, drawing dignitaries, traditional rulers, and community members who came to honor the revered monarch.
From Left: Governor Dapo Abiodun, His wife, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun and the Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako at the event
In his tribute, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the late Awujale’s reign as one that combined longevity with unmatched influence, wisdom, and integrity.
Traditional Reulers at the event.
“An Enduring Symbol of Ijebuland”
Governor Abiodun said Oba Adetona was more than a traditional ruler—he was an icon of national honour, a man of intellect, courage, and principle whose selflessness and generosity touched countless lives.
“Baba was not just the pride of our people; he was an illustrious son of Nigeria. He was courageous, incorruptible, and deeply committed to the progress of Ogun State and the Nigerian nation,” Abiodun remarked.
The Governor praised the Awujale’s strong moral compass, describing him as transparent in judgment, God-fearing, and a promoter of religious harmony.
Senator Lekan Mustapha at the event
A Philanthropist and Custodian of Heritage
According to Abiodun, the late monarch was a philanthropist of “immeasurable generosity,” a mentor to many, and the custodian of Ijebu’s rich ancestral heritage—visible every year in the celebrated Ojude-Oba festival.
He also recalled the monarch’s phenomenal memory and his ability to recount history with precision:
“Many times, I sat with Kabiyesi and found myself recording his words. His recall of dates, times, events, and lessons was always awe-inspiring,” Abiodun noted.
Chief Fassy Adetokubo Yusuf Phd. FNIM
A Life of Service and Love
Governor Abiodun concluded his tribute by describing Oba Adetona as a loving husband, a doting father and grandfather, and a father figure to many beyond his immediate family.
“His life was a tapestry of leadership, service, philanthropy, and devotion to peace. Though he has joined his ancestors, his legacy will forever inspire generations to come. Kabiyesi lived his reign and fulfilled all the scriptures prescribed. May God grant him eternal rest,” the Governor said.
The CEO of FCMB Group Plc, Ladi Subomi at the event.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The Fidau prayer was graced by an array of dignitaries, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, and the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
Also present were Senator Lekan Mustapha, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, and Hon. Dare Alebiosu, the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Chairman.
From across Nigeria came high-ranking traditional and religious leaders, such as the Emir of Kano, His Eminence Aminu Ado Bayero, all Ijebu traditional rulers led by the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Adebajo, and the Grand Chief Imam of Ijebu Land, Alhaji Mustapha Ayanbadejo, joined by many imams.
Olori Agba Iyabo Adetona
The royal family was represented by the Awujale’s three oloris — Olori Iyabode Adetona (Olori Agba), Olori Modupe Adetona, and Olori Oluwakemi Adetona — along with all princes led by Prince Adedire Adetona and princesses led by Princess Aderonke Adetona.
Also in attendance were the Otunbas, Ijebu Chiefs, the Awujale-in-Council, the Baagbimo of Ijebu-land Chief Fassy Adetokubo Yusuf Phd. FNIM, and the Chairman of the Ojude-Oba Festival Organising Committee, Chief Olu Okuboyejo,the Chief Executive Officer of FCMB Group Plc, Ladi Balogunamong many other illustrious sons and daughters of Ijebuland.
Chief Okuboyejo at the event
The Fidau prayer marked 40 days since the passing of the monarch, whose reign of over six decades made him one of Nigeria’s longest-serving and most respected traditional rulers.
Alhaja Kikelomo Akeusola at the event
🔹 Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona at a Glance
Birth: May 10, 1934
Coronation: April 2, 1960 (at just 26 years old)
Reign: 64 years as the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland — one of the longest in Nigeria’s history.
Legacy:
Defender of Yoruba culture and Ijebu heritage
Patron of the famous Ojude-Oba Festival
Advocate for justice, integrity, and accountability in governance
Philanthropist and mentor to many in business, politics, and community life
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