President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, foretold his victory in the 2023 presidential election and assured him of a second term.
Speaking at the 8th-day Fidau prayer held in honour of the revered monarch at Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode, Tinubu said the late king’s words gave him confidence and strength on his path to the presidency.
Tinubu said; “I was successful because of your support and the blessing of the late Awujale. I came to him and he blessed me. He said, ‘You will win that election and you will be re-elected. Go ahead.”
Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, Tinubu praised Oba Adetona’s wisdom and integrity, describing him as a man of honour, truth, and courage.
He added; “Today marks a very great day in the history of our nation, and particularly the Yoruba race. If you want to understand our culture deeply, start from Awujale. You will learn a lot.”
He noted that the monarch stood firmly with the people during the struggle for democracy, particularly during the June 12 crisis.
“During our protests and resistance against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Baba was always there—steadfast and encouraging.”
Tinubu proudly recalled that Oba Adetona was honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) at the age of 90
“Very honest, very bold, and very truthful—he would not deceive you,” the president said.
Earlier, Tinubu paid a private condolence visit to the late monarch’s family and laid a wreath at his final resting place.
He urged politicians and indigenes of Ijebuland to honour the monarch’s legacy by remaining united and upholding the values he championed.
He said; “Kabiyesi was more than a monarch; he was a beacon of hope and a custodian of our culture. We must cherish his legacy and allow the spirit of unity he left behind to guide us.”
The Fidau ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun; Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; and former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba.
Also in attendance were ministers Wale Edun, Festus Keyamo, Dele Alake, and Bosun Tijani; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; Senators Seriake Dickson and Solomon Adeola; Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Ibrahim Isiaka; and Representative Olumide Osoba.
Traditional rulers, clerics, and members of the Ijebu community also turned out in large numbers. Before the stadium event, Islamic and Christian clerics offered prayers at the late Oba’s residence.
In his tribute, Governor Abiodun described the Awujale as a true patriarch, a voice for the voiceless, and a moral compass whose reign brought honour and transformation to Ijebuland.
“Kabiyesi was not just a ruler; he was a mentor. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” Abiodun said.