President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, have arrived at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode for the eight-day Fidau prayer in honour of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Recall that the late Awujale died on the 13th of July
The President was warmly received by traditional rulers, and other dignitaries at the event.
The president offered prayers at the tomb and extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family on the monarch’s passing before he proceeded to the Dipo Dina Stadium for the main event where a large crowd was already waiting his arrival.
“Last Sunday, within hours, I lost two men I held in the highest esteem: my dear predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, and Kabiyesi, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who joined his ancestors after over 65 remarkable years on the throne.
“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father to me. He was a confidante, a guide, and a man of truth whose wisdom never failed to steady those who sought it. In over six decades on the throne, he ruled with rare dignity, candour, and courage, always putting the people first with an unmistakable sense of duty.
“I am in Ijebu-Ode today to honour his legacy at his eighth-day Fidau prayers. Oba Adetona’s demise has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general.
“His voice, leadership, and generosity will echo far beyond Ijebuland. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort all who mourn him.” he said in a statement.
Among dignitaries that accompanied the president on the visit were Chairman, Northern Governors Forum (NGF) Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara.
Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, and Senators Seriake Dickson and Gbenga Daniel were also present.
Oba Adetona’s death marks the end of a historic chapter in Ijebu community and Nigeria’s traditional leadership.
He is widely remembered as one of Nigeria’s most principled and fearless traditional rulers, leaving behind a towering legacy
The ongoing Fridau prayer is being led by Islamic cleric and emeritus Professor, Kamaldeen Balogun.