JUST IN: Buhari’s Longtime Ally, Awujale of Ijebuland, Is Dead

Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, has died at the age of 91. His passing on Sunday comes just hours after the death of his longtime friend and former Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari.

Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and reigned for more than 64 years, making him one of Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers. Throughout his decades on the throne, he was widely respected for his role in preserving the cultural heritage and political relevance of the Ijebu people.

His close relationship with Buhari began in the 1980s and was shaped by a pivotal moment in Nigerian history. In 1983, Olabisi Onabanjo, then governor of Ogun State, had signed a formal order deposing Adetona. The deposition was set to take effect on January 2, 1984. However, a military coup on December 31, 1983, led by Buhari, overthrew the civilian government before the order could be enforced. As a result, Adetona retained his position—a twist of fate that would strengthen the bond between the two men for decades to come.

The Awujale’s death marks the end of an era for Ijebuland and for traditional leadership in Nigeria.