Ijebu Ode and environs in Ogun State came alive with reverence and festivity on Sunday as residents gathered for the eight-day prayer in honour of the late Awujale, Sikiru Adetona.

The ceremony marked the culmination of mourning and celebration for a royal father who ruled for 65 years.

Mr Adetona, 91, passed away on July 13 and was laid to rest the following day, in line with his expressed religious wishes.

By 8:00 a.m., crowds of residents had begun arriving at the Dipo Dina Stadium, venue of the event.

The stadium was a sea of colours, as men, women, and youths appeared in traditional and modern attire, reflecting the cultural richness of Ijebu heritage.

Traditional drums echoed across the venue, with local groups performing chants and dances in tribute to the late traditional ruler’s life and enduring legacy.

At Mr Adetona’s private residence, where President Bola Tinubu is expected to stop first, religious leaders and dignitaries gathered in solemn reflection and prayer.

Some dignitaries said Mr Tinubu’s planned visit symbolised national recognition of Mr Adetona’s significance beyond the Ijebu community and Ogun.

Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, described the event as a solemn yet befitting occasion to honour one of Nigeria’s legendary traditional rulers.

Mr Daniel said, “The president’s presence at the prayers is historic. It will be remembered for generations across the Ijebu nation as a mark of deep respect.”

Also, Abdulrazaq Ishola, Grand Mufti of Muslims in Yorubaland, remembered Mr Adetona’s advocacy for a bill that would allow traditional rulers to be buried in accordance with their religious beliefs.

The Islamic leader revealed that the Awujale had been recognised as Grand Commander of Muslim Obas in Yoruba land due to his unwavering Islamic commitment.

Michael Fape, bishop of the Remo Anglican Diocese, eulogised the monarch as one who embraced and respected all religions during his reign.

He recalled his close relationship with the late monarch, saying, “Oba Adetona lived above religious bias. He treated all faiths equally, as a true paramount ruler.”

Markets such as Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje were temporarily shut to enable full participation in the farewell ceremonies.

The closure of economic activity highlighted the deep respect held for Mr Adetona and the significance of the eight-day prayer ceremony.

(NAN)