The town of Ijebu-Ode is wearing a somber look today as all markets and shops remain closed to mourn the passing of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who died on Sunday at the age of 91.

The decision to shut down commercial activities was taken by the leadership of markets across Ijebu-Ode, who held an emergency meeting on Sunday to honor the highly respected monarch.

“Markets in Ijebu-Ode will be shut today as a mark of respect to our great King, who passed away on Sunday. May his soul rest in peace,” said Mr. Abiodun Adejare, a resident and close associate of the Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife.

 

Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, passed away at his GRA residence in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State. His death marks the end of an era for Ijebuland, Ogun State, and indeed Nigeria, given his transformative reign that spanned over six decades.

Confirming the sad news, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described the monarch’s death as “the end of a great era.”

“Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general,” the governor said in a statement.

 

The news of the Awujale’s passing came on the same day Nigeria also lost its former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who died in a UK hospital after a long illness — a coincidence Governor Abiodun referred to as a “double sadness.”

As Ijebu-Ode pauses its bustling trade to honor Oba Adetona, residents and well-wishers reflect on the life of a monarch whose leadership not only modernized Ijebuland but also brought it immense pride on the national stage.