Senator Daniel mourns Awujale, calling him a symbol of Ijebu pride and integrity in a heartfelt tribute following the monarch’s passing at age 91

Senator Daniel mourns Awujale in a deeply personal and emotional tribute following the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland.

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The monarch died on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 91, marking the end of a 65-year reign and a monumental chapter in Yoruba history.

In a statement shared with the press, Senator Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng, described the loss as both personal and collective.

He called the monarch a moral compass, cultural icon, and father figure whose legacy would remain etched in the hearts of Ijebu people and beyond.

“I received the news of the passing of our highly revered monarch with great sadness and a profound sense of loss,” Daniel stated.

“Kabiyesi was not just our traditional ruler in Ijebu land, but a father figure to many of us. His life exemplified the core values of integrity, courage and wisdom.”

Senator Daniel mourns Awujale not only as a political leader and respected senator but as the Otunba Obalofin of Ijebu land—a title given to him by the royal court.

His words reflect a unique closeness to the departed monarch, with whom he shared a long-standing personal bond.

Describing the monarch as “Orisa Ijebu,” a deified figure of prosperity and guidance, Daniel highlighted how Oba Adetona came to symbolise progress and enterprise during his six and a half decades on the throne.

Kabiyesi was the moral compass of integrity, courage and wisdom. His life symbolised the full essence of our culture and traditional values.

He praised the monarch’s ability to unite and elevate the identity of the Ijebu people.

“Kabiyesi became the symbol and identity of progress, resourcefulness and enterprise, earning the sobriquet ‘Orisa Ijebu’, an apotheosis of a god with spiritual authority and a dispenser of prosperity,” he noted.

Daniel’s tribute also reflected on the monarch’s long reign, which he said filled a historical and spiritual void.

The senator acknowledged the monarch’s impact not only on Ijebu land but also on Yoruba land and Nigeria at large.

Senator Daniel mourns Awujale with heartfelt condolences extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a close friend and alter ego of the monarch, as well as to Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Council of Otunbas, the chiefs, and the entire Ijebu diaspora.

“I am personally comforted that Kabiyesi Adetona has just transitioned into the eternal realm of immortality and spirituality where he will forever superintend over the affairs of Akile Ijebu and its prosperity,” Daniel said.

He concluded his message with prayers for the monarch’s earthly family, wishing them divine guidance and strength during their period of mourning.

As tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, the passing of Oba Adetona is being recognised as a major turning point in Yoruba traditional history.

Also read: Speaker Obasa Mourns Awujale as Yoruba Nation Bids Farewell

Known for his wisdom, candour and cultural leadership, the Awujale’s legacy will continue to shape generations to come.