A Tribute to a Legend: Prince Jamiu Lateef Odunsi Oba-Elect Mourns the Awujale of Ijebu

By Star Nigerian News

Lagos, Nigeria – July 14, 2025

The people of Ijebu and Nigeria at large are in deep mourning following the passing of Alayeluwa Kabiyesi Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona GCON, Ogbagba II Awujale & Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland , who joined his ancestors on the 13th of July, 2025. The revered monarch, who reigned for over six decades, was a pillar of wisdom, unity, and progress in Ijebuland and beyond.

Among the many voices paying tribute to the late Kabiyesi is Prince Jamiu Lateef Odunsi, the Oba-Elect of Isheri-Oke Church, Lagos State. Prince Odunsi, who also holds the prestigious title of Baba Egbe Jagunmolu Obinrin Akinle Ijebu Omooba, expressed his profound grief while speaking exclusively to StarNigerianNews.com

In his heartfelt condolence message, Prince Jamiu Lateef Odunsi described Oba Adetona as a “role model for all traditional rulers,” whose reign brought unprecedented development to Ijebuland.

“The passing of Kabiyesi Oba Sikiru Adetona is a great loss not just to the Ijebu people but to the entire nation. He was a father, a unifier, and a visionary leader whose wisdom and dedication transformed Ijebuland into a thriving community. His legacy will forever remain in our hearts,” the Oba-Elect said.

Alayeluwa Kabiyesi Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona GCON, Ogbagba II Awujale, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs. His reign witnessed remarkable advancements in education, infrastructure, and cultural preservation. He established the Oba Sikiru Adetona Professorial Chair in Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University, cementing his commitment to education and leadership development.

Prince Odunsi highlighted how the late Awujale’s leadership inspired many, including himself, in their own traditional and communal roles.

“Kabiyesi’s life was a testament to selfless service. As the Oba-Elect of Isheri-Oke Church, I have always looked up to his exemplary leadership. His passing is a call for all of us to uphold the values he stood for unity, progress, and the preservation of our heritage.”

Prince Jamiu Lateef Odunsi concluded his tribute with a prayer for the departed monarch, saying:

“May Almighty Allah grant Kabiyesi Aljannah Firdaus. May his soul find eternal rest, and may the people of Ijebuland and Nigeria at large find solace in his enduring legacies. We pray that the next Awujale will continue from where our great king left off.”

As the nation mourns, arrangements for the final burial rites of the late Awujale are being made by the Ijebu Traditional Council, with dignitaries, traditional rulers, and government officials expected to pay their last respects to the legendary monarch.

Long Live the Spirit of the Awujale!

Long Live Ijebuland!

Long Live Nigeria!