President Muhammadu Buhari mourned late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, describing him as one of Nigeria’s foremost traditional rulers.

The Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) Femi Adesina said in a statement in Abuja that, “President Buhari extends sincere condolences to the late Ooni’s family, his friends, associates and subjects, as well as the government and people of Osun State on the departure of the First Class Monarch.”

“The President,” Adesina said, “joins them in mourning the revered traditional ruler who will be long remembered and celebrated for his worthy service, over more than three decades, as the Chief Custodian of the traditions of the Yorubas and his invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria.”

He added that President Buhari believes that Oba Sijuwade’s place in posterity has already been assured by his long and worthy service to his people and country as well as his notable contributions to the development of his community, state and country as a leading businessman, administrator and inspirational traditional ruler.

“As they mourn his passing, President Buhari urges the Ooni’s family, friends, associates and subjects to be consoled by the knowledge that he lived a very fulfilled life, and has left worthy legacies for his successors to build upon. He prays that God Almighty will comfort all who mourn Oba Sijuwade and bring forth a worthy successor to take his place on the ancient throne of Ile-Ife.”

•Photo shows late Oba Sijuwade.