Speaker Obasa mourns Awujale, calling him a unifying leader and cultural icon in a moving statement following the monarch’s passing at age 91

Speaker Obasa mourns Awujale, HRM Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the respected monarch of Ijebuland, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 91.

Also read: Obasa mourns Buhari passing, urges Nigerians to celebrate his legacy

Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s demise, calling it a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.

The death of Oba Adetona, a close contemporary of former President Muhammadu Buhari, came just hours after the former president’s own passing, adding to a moment of immense national grief.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dave Agboola, the Lagos Speaker described the late monarch as “a revered monarch, a custodian of our rich cultural heritage, and a symbol of unity and strength in our community.”

Speaker Obasa mourns Awujale not just as a traditional ruler, but as a pivotal figure whose influence extended beyond the borders of Ijebu-Ode.

According to Obasa, the monarch’s leadership was marked by dedication to peace, development, and cultural pride.

“Throughout his reign, he exemplified dedication to the welfare of his people, fostering development and peace. His wisdom and leadership left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Yorubas the world over, not just Ijebu people, will miss his leadership,” Obasa said.

Oba Adetona reigned for over six decades and became an enduring voice for cultural preservation and communal stability.

Yorubas the world over, not just Ijebu people, will miss his leadership.

He was widely regarded as a monarch who balanced tradition with modern influence, often using his platform to address national issues and support social harmony.

Obasa reflected on the monarch’s longstanding contributions to conflict resolution and unity among ethnic groups in the South West.

His legacy, the Speaker said, would serve as a guiding light for both present and future leaders. “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Obasa remarked.

Speaker Obasa mourns Awujale with the full support of the Lagos State House of Assembly, which he leads.

On behalf of the House, he extended condolences to the Adetona royal family, the Ijebu traditional council, and the people of Ijebuland.

“We join you in mourning the loss of a remarkable leader. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.

The passing of Oba Adetona has triggered widespread reactions across political, traditional, and civil circles.

From governors and lawmakers to cultural organisations and scholars, tributes have poured in for a man widely seen as one of the most intellectually and culturally influential monarchs of his era.

His death marks the end of an era in Yoruba traditional leadership. Known for his outspokenness and visionary thinking, Oba Adetona was also a respected figure within national affairs, often consulted for guidance on key sociopolitical matters.

As the nation mourns the double loss of Buhari and Adetona, the reflections from leaders like Obasa underscore the importance of preserving the values they championed.