President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has attributed his 2023 election victory to the royal blessing of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and the steadfast support of the Nigerian people.
Speaking at the 8th-Day Fidau Prayer in honour of the revered monarch, held at Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, South West Nigeria, President Tinubu described Oba Adetona as a pillar of integrity and an enduring symbol of Yoruba pride.
The President was welcomed by governor Dapo Abiodun, former Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba, and other dignitaries before proceeding to the private residence of the late monarch, Ogbagba Court, where he signed the condolence register and paid his final respects.
Joined by ministers, lawmakers, and other dignitaries, the President arrived at the prayer venue, where Islamic leaders, royal families, and guests from across the country had gathered to honour the legacy of the late Monarch.
In his address, President Tinubu spoke with emotion, recalling how Oba Adetona’s words and prayers had strengthened his resolve during the 2023 campaign.
“When I visited him before the election, he prayed for me and said, “You will win this election, and by God’s grace, you will return for a second term.” Those words lifted me. Without his blessing and the support of Nigerians, I might not be standing here today as your President.”
He also hailed the late monarch’s courage during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, particularly in the wake of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
“He stood by us at a time when it was dangerous to do so.
“His wisdom, boldness, and unwavering belief in democracy encouraged us through the darkest moments. His legacy is deeply woven into the democratic fabric of this country.”
Describing Oba Adetona as “irreplaceable,” Tinubu praised the monarch for his honesty, leadership, and dedication to the Yoruba people and the nation.”
“He never told you what you wanted to hear—only the truth”.
“He lived with dignity, spoke with wisdom, and ruled with courage. Nigeria and Yoruba land have lost a rare gem.”
President Tinubu also used the occasion to call for unity among Ijebu sons and daughters and the broader Nigerian political class, urging them to uphold the values the late monarch stood for.
“Let us honour him not just in words, but in the way we conduct ourselves—united, just, and focused on legacy-building.”
Also speaking at the event, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, called on Ijebu indigenes to rally together to sustain the harmony and developmental vision championed by the late monarch.
“Kabiyesi was not just a traditional ruler—he was a visionary and a moral beacon. The eyes of the nation are upon Ijebuland. Let us not allow division to erode the foundations he laid.”
The event drew attendance from several state governors, deputy governors, former state governors, federal lawmakers, traditional rulers, and Islamic clerics, all paying tribute to a monarch many described as one of the most principled kings of his generation.
Lateefah Ibrahim