End of an Era: Oba Sikiru Adetona's Historic Reign
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the 55th Awujale of Ijebuland, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91. He ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and ruled for 65 years—a record tenure that made him one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs.
Born on May 10, 1934, Oba Adetona hailed from the Anikinaiya Ruling House. His leadership was marked by progressive reforms, cultural revival, and a commitment to both traditional values and modern governance. He was laid to rest the following day at his Igbeba residence in Ijebu-Ode, in accordance with Islamic rites—an act made legally protected under Ogun State’s 2021 traditional rulers’ law.
Legal Framework and the Rotational Principle
The succession process is dictated by the Western State Chieftaincy Declarations made under Section 4(2) of the Chiefs Law of 1957. These declarations codify the customary law for selecting the Awujale of Ijebuland, establishing a rotational system among four ruling houses:
- Anikinaiya
- Fusengbuwa
- Fidipote
- Gbelegbuwa
With the Anikinaiya House having produced the late Oba Adetona, the next turn falls to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, in line with the order of succession. The declarations describe Gbelegbuwa as the "last ruling house" in the cycle, after which the rotation recommences.
How the Next Awujale Will Be Chosen
The selection process begins internally within the ruling house whose turn it is to produce the next Awujale. A family meeting is convened by the head or heads of the house to nominate a candidate or multiple candidates. This nomination is then formally presented to the Odis, a specific group of chiefs who serve as intermediaries.
Following this step, the names are submitted to the kingmakers, who are vested with the responsibility of selecting the most suitable nominee. There are 13 kingmakers in total, representing four traditional chieftaincy classes: Ilamuren, Odi, Osugbo, and Pampa.
The 13 Kingmakers and Their Classes
Ilamuren Class (6 Members)
- Olisa of Ijebu-Ode
- Ogbeni-Oja of Ijebu-Ode
- Egbo of Ijebu-Ode
- Apebi of Ijebu-Ode
- Olotufore of Ijebu-Ode
- Olotu-Olowa of Ijebu-Ode
Odi Class (2 Members)
- Ogbeni-Odi-Imesi of Ijebu-Ode
- Ekeji-Odi-Iletu of Ijebu-Ode
Osugbo Class (1 Member)
- Oliwo of Ijebu-Ode
Pampa Class (4 Members)
- Agbon of Ijebu-Ode
- Kakanfo of Ijebu-Ode
- Lapoekun of Ijebu-Ode
- Balogun of Ijebu-Ode
These kingmakers deliberate on the suitability of each nominee based on lineage, character, and capability. Their decision marks the final stage of the traditional process before official recognition and installation by the state government.
A Blend of Tradition and Law
The selection of the next Awujale not only adheres to deeply rooted cultural practices but is also supported by modern legal provisions. In 2022, Governor Dapo Abiodun signed the “Obas, Chiefs, Council of Obas and Traditional Council Law of Ogun State 2021” during a ceremony at the Awujale’s palace. One of the law’s key provisions affirms the right of traditional rulers to choose religious burial rites in line with their personal faith, alongside traditional customs—a significant development in balancing personal freedom with cultural expectations.
Looking Ahead
As the Fusengbuwa Ruling House begins internal consultations in the coming months, the people of Ijebuland will look forward to the emergence of a new leader who will uphold the legacy of Oba Adetona. With tradition, law, and spirituality guiding the path forward, the selection of the 56th Awujale promises to reinforce the enduring values of continuity, order, and cultural identity within Ijebuland.