All is now set for the eight-day Fidau prayers of His Imperial Majesty, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II.
Ijebu traditional, religious, and political leaders have described the expected attendance of President Tinubu at the Fidau as a profound show of respect and honour for the late monarch.
They said his planned participation underscores the cordial relationship between the Nigerian Leader and the Awujale during his lifetime.
They also stated that the President’s participation demonstrates reverence for traditional institutions and serves as a recognition of the cultural and religious leadership, as well as the enduring legacy, of the late Awujale and paramount ruler, Oba Adetona Sikiru.
Speaking to Voice of Nigeria, the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheik Abdulrazaq Abdul Azeez Ishola, described the President’s anticipated presence as a significant tribute to the late monarch. “Yes, the President’s participation will be a mark of honour to the late Awujale, and it is widely acknowledged that Oba Adetona, Kabiyesi, during his lifetime, was a pillar of support for President Tinubu,” he said.
On the Awujale’s burial, the Grand Mufti said Oba Adetona was a devout Muslim who ensured Islamic rites were observed at his burial, having championed a bill 16 years ago mandating traditional rulers to be buried according to their faith.
He recalled that Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State was present at the burial six days ago, affirming the state’s support for the burial rights of Muslim monarchs.
Abdul Azeez Ishola further described Oba Adetona as a peaceful and firm leader crowned Grand Commander of Muslim Kings in Yorubaland. “When we buried the Awujale, the Governor was there to support the process and honour a man of peace who believed in following due process,” he said.
On the controversy surrounding the burial rites, the Grand Mufti urged traditionalists to submit their grievances to the Ogun State House of Assembly, as the Awujale had done.
The Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Michael Olusina Fape, praised the late monarch’s liberal leadership, describing him as a king respected by people of all faiths in Ijebu Ode.
“I knew him as a man who led his community well and lived for everybody, including traditionalists,” he said. “Though a Muslim, he was a paramount ruler for all — Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists. Even with a busy schedule, he always identified with us Anglicans.”
He said the presence of Anglican clergy at the Fidau is a testament to the monarch’s broad acceptance. “The Awujale never discriminated. His liberalism was exceptional. I am here with four other Anglican priests, which shows how much he was loved,” the Bishop added.
Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, described President Tinubu’s expected attendance as a continuation of the friendship between the President and the late monarch. “It is common knowledge that the Awujale was a major pillar of support for the President. His presence at the Fidau will sustain that bond even in death,” Daniel said. “The news of his planned attendance has excited Ijebuland and will remain a reference point for the Ijebu nation.”
Ijebu Ode residents expressed gratitude for the President’s expected presence, describing Oba Adetona as a progressive monarch who spoke truth to power and prioritised education and development.
Major markets, including Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje, were closed as residents prepared to pay their final respects.
Locals hailed the Awujale as a beacon of development who transformed Ijebu’s social and economic life.
“The Awujale’s Fidau prayers have attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, business executives, and religious figures from across Nigeria and beyond,” organisers said.
The prayer session is holding at Dipo Dina Stadium, one of the largest venues in Ijebu Ode.
The Awujale’s Tomb
Oba Dr. Sikiru Adetona, GCON, was buried in a family mausoleum alongside his father, late Omoba Rufai Adetona Ogbagba, who witnessed his son’s reign until his death in 1984.
The monarch died on 13th July and was buried on 14th July in accordance with Islamic rites at Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu Ode, marking the end of a historic 65-year reign — one of Nigeria’s longest — and a significant chapter in national leadership.
PIAK