President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing him as an exemplary monarch whose legacy of courage, integrity, and leadership elevated the Yoruba race.

Speaking on Sunday at the eight-day Fidau prayer held in honour of the revered monarch at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode, President Tinubu hailed the late royal father, who passed away at the age of 91, as a fearless democrat and a strong ally during the struggle against the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Reflecting on the monarch’s support during his political journey, Tinubu revealed that Oba Adetona not only stood firm during the June 12 struggle but also blessed his 2023 presidential ambition.

“Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, was a leader of deep conscience, tradition, and values. He brought pride and honour to the Yoruba race. I am extremely proud of him.

“I vividly recall our resistance against the annulment of the June 12 election—our strategy sessions in his palace, his steadfastness, and unwavering encouragement. He was bold, honest, and courageous.

“Before the 2023 elections, I visited him, and he blessed me. He told me, ‘You will win,’ and I did. Our history would not be complete if I had failed, and his blessing played a key role in that victory.”

Accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and governors from the South-West and Kwara State, the President described the late Awujale’s wisdom as rare and enduring.

“He is no more, but his wisdom remains with us. We must honour his legacy by staying united and upholding the values he represented. His name is etched in history, and his legacies—symbolised by institutions named after him—will endure.”

In his own tribute, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, praised Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign as transformative and reform-driven.

“Ijebu land prospered under his reign. He was a bridge between our rich history and the modern future. A custodian of tradition, yet a bold reformer, he championed peace, unity, and religious harmony.”

Governor Abiodun noted that the state government had renamed the College of Education, Omu-Ijebu, in honour of the monarch and called on citizens to uphold his values.

“Let us honour Kabiyesi not only with words and ceremonies, but by embracing the peace, unity, and dignity he stood for.”

Also present at the solemn event were former governors of Ogun State—Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Gbenga Daniel, and Senator Ibikunle Amosun—as well as traditional rulers, dignitaries, and Islamic scholars.

The Fidau prayer was led by Sheikh Jamiu Bello, President of the League of Imams and Alfas in the South-West, with support from Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo and other Islamic clerics.

In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Professor Emeritus Kamaldeen Balogun, urged political leaders to emulate the monarch’s virtues of honesty, service, and devotion to God.

“Power is transient. What remains is the legacy of service and integrity. That is what the Awujale leaves behind,” he said.