By MUHYIDEEN JIMOH

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday paid glowing tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona, calling him a mentor and trusted confidante.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu, alongside his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, visited the Oba’s private residence in Ijebu-Ode for his eighth-day Fidau prayer.

?President Tinubu spoke in private with the widows, children and other members of the immediate family of the late Awujale.

The President thereafter offered prayers at the tomb and extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family on the monarch’s passing.

At the gravesite, Tinubu stood in quiet reflection, praying for the Oba’s eternal peace and honouring his extraordinary legacy.

The solemn gathering drew Islamic clerics, dignitaries, and well-wishers to celebrate a revered traditional ruler who reigned for 65 remarkable years.

Tinubu emphasised that the Awujale was not just a traditional ruler but a personal mentor and confidante of immense value.

“Last Sunday, I lost two men I held dear my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Awujale of Ijebu,” he said.

The President praised Oba Adetona’s life of dedicated service, marked by integrity, courage, and unyielding devotion to his people.

“Kabiyesi was more than a royal father. He was a guide, a man of truth, and a source of steadying wisdom.

“For over 60 years on the throne, he led with candour, honour, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to his people.”

After the brief and solemn visit, the President and his entourage proceeded to the Dipo Dina Stadium for the main event where a la’ge crowd was already waiting.

Earlier in a heartfelt tribute following his death, Tinubu described the Awujale as a “towering natural ruler.”

“He was a towering natural ruler who served with wisdom, dignity, and a deep commitment to progress,” the President said.

The Fidau prayer drew high-ranking officials and governors from across the country in a show of respect and solidarity.

Among dignitaries that accompanied the President on the visit were Chairman, Northern Governors Forum (NGF) Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, and Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun.

Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, and Senators Seriake Dickson and Gbenga Daniel were also present.

Oba Adetona’s death marks the end of a historic chapter in Ijebu community and Nigeria’s traditional leadership.

He is widely remembered as one of Nigeria’s most principled and fearless traditional rulers, leaving behind a towering legacy. (NAN)

•PHOTO: President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, at the private residence of the late Awujale of Ijebu, Oba Kayode Adetona, during the eighth-day Fidau prayer in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.