Awujale of Ijebuland, Sikiru Kayode Adetona
The Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on Tuesday, described the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as an exemplary monarch who made a significant positive impact during his 62-year reign.
He stated this in his tribute to the highly revered monarch, who joined his ancestors on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 91.
The National Publicity Secretary of the organisation, Jare Ajayi, in a statement in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, quoted Afenifere leader as saying that the late monarch was one of the Obas in Yorubaland who exalt the position of royalty.
Fasoranti disclosed that right from the time the late monarch started his public service in the defunct Western Region, his conduct on his return from the United Kingdom where he studied Accountancy and all through his years on the throne, the late Awujale led a life that is worthy of emulation in terms of integrity, focus and dedication to serving the people.
“The then Prince Adetona was crowned as Awujale on April 5, 1960.
“He became a member of the Western Region House of Chiefs immediately thereafter.
“Records have it that he conducted himself well just as he did when he headed various bodies, including the Traditional Rulers Council in Ogun State.”
The Afenifere leader recalled the patriotic role played by the monarch, particularly in the imbroglio brought about by the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election.
“His reign was characterised by wisdom, dexterity, an enlightened and admirable leadership style, commitment to the Yoruba cause and the national interests,” he added.
Source: PUNCH
Also commending the late Oba’s dedication to the culture and tradition of Yorubaland, the statement recalled that his reign brought Ojude-Oba celebration not only to the limelight but made it a cynosure of everyone, including the international community.
He, therefore, commiserated with the Ogun State Government, the people of Ijebuland, Yorubaland, and the royalty in Nigeria, of which late Adetona was a distinguished member and prayed for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
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