Preparations are complete for the eight-day Fidau prayers honoring His Imperial Majesty, the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II.
Ijebu traditional, religious, and political leaders have welcomed President Tinubu’s expected attendance at the Fidau, describing it as a profound gesture of respect and tribute to the late monarch. They emphasized that the President’s planned participation highlights the strong and cordial relationship he shared with the Awujale during his lifetime.
They further noted that the President’s involvement reflects deep reverence for traditional institutions and acknowledges the cultural, religious, and leadership legacy left by Oba Adetona.
Speaking to newsmen, the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheik Abdulrazaq Abdul Azeez Ishola, called the President’s anticipated presence a significant tribute. “President Tinubu’s participation is a mark of honor for the late Awujale, who was known as a steadfast supporter of the President,” he said.
Regarding the Awujale’s burial, the Grand Mufti highlighted that Oba Adetona was a devout Muslim who ensured Islamic burial rites were properly observed. He recalled that 16 years ago, the monarch championed a bill requiring traditional rulers to be buried according to their faith. He also noted the presence of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun at the burial six days ago, affirming the state’s commitment to upholding the burial rights of Muslim monarchs.
Sheik Abdul Azeez described Oba Adetona as a peaceful yet firm leader who was crowned Grand Commander of Muslim Kings in Yorubaland. “The Governor was there to honor a man of peace who valued due process,” he added.
On the recent controversy over the burial rites, the Grand Mufti urged traditionalists to formally present their concerns to the Ogun State House of Assembly, following the Awujale’s example.
The Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Michael Olusina Fape, praised the late monarch’s inclusive leadership, noting that he was respected by people of all faiths in Ijebu Ode. “Though a Muslim, he led for everyone Muslims, Christians, and traditionalists alike,” the Bishop said. “Despite his busy schedule, he always made time to engage with the Anglican community.”
He further explained that the presence of Anglican clergy at the Fidau reflects the monarch’s broad acceptance and exceptional liberalism. “I’m here with four other Anglican priests, which speaks volumes about how much he was loved,” he said.
Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, described President Tinubu’s expected attendance as a continuation of the strong friendship between the President and the late Awujale. “It is well known that the Awujale was a key supporter of the President, and his presence at the Fidau will sustain that bond beyond death,” Daniel remarked. “The news has excited Ijebuland and will remain a lasting reference for the Ijebu people.”
Residents of Ijebu Ode expressed gratitude for the President’s anticipated presence and remembered Oba Adetona as a progressive leader who fearlessly spoke truth to power and prioritized education and development.
Major markets including Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje were closed as residents prepared to pay their final respects. The late Awujale is celebrated as a catalyst for development who transformed Ijebu’s social and economic landscape.
Organizers noted that the Fidau prayers have drawn traditional rulers, political leaders, business executives, and religious figures from across Nigeria and beyond.
The prayers are being held at Dipo Dina Stadium, one of the largest venues in Ijebu Ode.
Oba Dr. Sikiru Adetona, GCON, was laid to rest in a family mausoleum alongside his father, the late Omoba Rufai Adetona Ogbagba, who witnessed his son’s reign until his passing in 1984.
The monarch passed away on July 13 and was buried the following day, July 14, in accordance with Islamic rites at Ogbagba Court, Igbeba, Ijebu Ode. His burial marked the end of a historic 65-year reign one of Nigeria’s longest and a significant era in national leadership.
