Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebu Kingdom, stands as one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs, having been crowned on April 2, 1960, just months before the country’s independence.
With more than six decades on the throne—64 years, to be precise—Oba Adetona’s reign is second in longevity only to that of Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti. At 90 years old, he is regarded as one of Africa’s most revered traditional rulers, a king whose influence and leadership have endured through Nigeria’s evolution as a nation.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 10, 1934, in Ijebu Ode, Oba Adetona hails from the Anikinaiya royal house. His educational journey began at Baptist Schools in Ereko, then continued through Ogbere United Primary School and Ansar-Ud-Deen School, all situated in the Ijebu area. He later attended Olu-Iwa College (now Adeola Odutola College) between 1951 and 1956.
Driven by a strong desire for knowledge and self-betterment, he worked briefly with the Audit Department in the Western Region, Ibadan, before traveling to the United Kingdom in 1958 to pursue a career in accountancy—an extraordinary path at the time.
His Path to Royalty
Though he was among six individuals nominated by the Ojude Oba Descendants’ Society (ODIS), Oba Adetona was the unanimous choice of the kingmakers. His ascension to the throne was formally sanctioned by the Western Region’s governor, making him the Awujale of Ijebuland at the young age of 26.
Following tradition, he entered a three-month period of seclusion at Odo. His public presentation as king was conducted on January 18, 1960, by Chief Timothy Adeola Odutola, who was then the Head of the Ijebu Ode Regency Council.
A Reign of Purpose and Impact
Unlike many monarchs whose roles are largely ceremonial, Oba Adetona has taken active steps to empower his people through education and leadership. One of the most significant milestones of his reign is the creation of the Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ago-Iwoye. This institution aims to tackle leadership challenges across Nigeria and the African continent.
In 2022, the Tai Solarin College of Education in Omu-Ajose was renamed the Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Science and Technology (SACOETEC). The name change, authorized by Governor Dapo Abiodun, was in recognition of the monarch’s enduring contribution to education and regional development.
Ojude Oba Festival – A Celebration of Unity
One of the highlights of Oba Adetona’s reign is the annual Ojude Oba Festival, a grand cultural celebration that attracts thousands of Ijebu sons and daughters from within Nigeria and across the globe. Far beyond just a festive gathering, the event reflects the profound respect and affection his people have for their monarch.
A Legacy Set in Stone
Now in his 90s and father to nine children, Oba Adetona continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s cultural and political discourse. During the king’s 90th birthday celebration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid tribute to the monarch’s unwavering support and influence over the decades. He said:
“Kabiyesi has remained a dependable ally. He is not just a traditional ruler but a preeminent royal father who brought honour, courage, and strength of character to the throne for over 60 years.”
In a nation constantly seeking strong, visionary leadership, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona represents a timeless figure whose reign has become a symbol of endurance, wisdom, and service.
