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Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, was filled with reverence and festivity on Sunday as residents gathered for the eight-day prayer ceremony in honor of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
The ceremony marked the culmination of mourning and celebration for the royal father who ruled for 65 years and left an indelible mark on the Ijebu community.
A Sea of Colors
The Dipo Dina Stadium, venue of the event, was a kaleidoscope of colors as men, women, and youths donned traditional and modern attire, reflecting the cultural richness of Ijebu heritage.
Traditional drums echoed across the venue, with local groups performing chants and dances in tribute to the late traditional ruler’s life and legacy.
At Oba Adetona’s private residence, religious leaders and dignitaries gathered in solemn reflection and prayer.
President Bola Tinubu’s planned visit was seen as a symbol of national recognition of Oba Adetona’s significance beyond Ijebu community and Ogun State.
*Tributes*
Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, described the event as a solemn yet befitting occasion to honor one of Nigeria’s legendary traditional rulers.
“The news of the President attending brought joy across Ijebuland. It highlights the close relationship between the President and our royal father,” Daniel said.
Grand Mufti of Muslims in Yoruba land, Sheik Abdulrazaq Ishola, praised Oba Adetona’s commitment to his faith and his role in bridging tradition and religion.
“The President’s attendance is not political but deeply symbolic. Oba Adetona was a pillar of support and faith throughout his life,” Ishola noted.
Bishop of the Remo Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Fape, eulogized the Oba as a unifying figure who transcended ethnic and religious boundaries.
“He led his people with wisdom and tolerance. Though Muslim, he related warmly with Christians and traditionalists alike,” he said (NAN)
Source: NationalAccordNewspaper | Read More
