He was an exemplary leader - Fayemi pays tribute to late Ijebu monarch.

He was an exemplary leader - Fayemi pays tribute to late Ijebu monarch.

Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed profound sadness over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba Agbotewole II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

In a statement by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, the head of the Fayemi Media Office, Dr. Fayemi described the late monarch's death as a monumental loss to Nigeria's traditional institution and the entire country.

"I received the news of Kabiyesi's transition with profound sadness," Dr. Fayemi said. "The death of Oba Adetona marks the end of an extraordinary era in traditional rulership in Nigeria. His 65-year reign, which began on April 5, 1960, stands as proof of exceptional leadership and dedication to his people."

The former governor praised the late Awujale's role as a unifying force, noting that his influence extended far beyond Ijebuland to encompass the entire Southwest region and Nigeria as a whole.

"Throughout his remarkable tenure, the late Awujale distinguished himself as a man of wisdom, temperance, and unity. His counsel and diplomatic approach to conflict resolution earned him respect across ethnic and religious lines," he stated.

According to Fayemi, Oba Adetona's vision for development, combined with reverence for tradition, created a unique model of traditional leadership that bridged the gap between modernity and cultural heritage.

"I particularly recall Kabiyesi's advocacy for good governance, his role as a voice of reason during challenging times, and his support for democratic institutions. His palace served as a sanctuary of wisdom where leaders from across the political spectrum sought counsel and direction," Fayemi stated.

Fayemi added that the late monarch's efforts in promoting education, fostering peace, and supporting socio-economic development in Ijebuland and beyond would never be forgotten.

"The vacuum left by Oba Adetona's passing will be deeply felt across Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest region where he played a major role in maintaining inter-communal harmony and fostering regional cooperation among traditional rulers," he said.

Dr. Fayemi extended his condolences to the Adetona Royal Family, the people of Ijebuland, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the entire state of Ogun, praying that Almighty God grant the departed monarch eternal rest.