President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of the Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, describing him as an iconic and dignified traditional ruler.

In a tribute personally signed, Mr Tinubu praised the monarch’s 65-year reign, which was marked by unwavering duty, honour, and selfless service to his people.

Mr Tinubu said the monarch’s passing brought double grief, as it occurred alongside the death of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

“The passing of Oba Adetona has created a huge vacuum within traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

“Oba Adetona was a towering ruler who served with grace, dignity, and a firm sense of duty,” the president said.

He noted that the monarch’s leadership had an impact not just on Ijebu-Ode but also on the wider Ijebu community, promoting unity and development across the region.

“His reign brought notable progress and transformation to Ijebu-Ode and Ijebu community through his steadfast leadership and vision for his people,” Mr Tinubu added.

The president recalled that Mr Adetona, who ascended the throne at 26, championed peace, progress, and national cohesion during his reign.

“Oba Adetona used his royal platform to promote unity and progress for over six decades, beginning at just 26 years old. Amid national uncertainty, he always stood as a voice of reason and a symbol of stability,” Mr Tinubu said.

Mr Tinubu also reflected on his personal relationship with the traditional ruler, describing it as a bond filled with wisdom and strength.

“I found his presence comforting, his wisdom enlightening, and his honesty deeply empowering,” the president noted.

He praised the late monarch’s enduring legacy in public service, philanthropy, and education, particularly through the governance school at Olabisi Onabanjo University.

Mr Tinubu extended his condolences to the royal family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and all the people of Ogun, as well as the Ijebu community.

He prayed for Mr Adetona’s peaceful rest and asked for the strength to uphold the values and legacy he had left behind.

The monarch passed away on Sunday at the age of 91, just hours after the death of his longtime friend, former Mr Buhari.

Mr Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers.

(NAN)