Yoruba indigenes Foundation condoles Nigerians over demise of two prominent citizens

CITIZENS COMPASS—As the final burial rites for the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona holds today, the Yoruba Indigenes Foundation (YIF) Worldwide has condoled with Nigerians particularly Yorubaland following the monarch who joined his ancestors yesterday.

Also, the Foundation commiserated with Nigerians over the demise of former President Muhammad Buhari who passed away in a London clinic, United Kingdom yesterday.

In a statement signed by YIF President, Dr Olumide Aderibole Phillip, he described the passing away of these prominent Nigerians as a great loss to the nation.

He said both departed the world at a time their fatherly roles are greatly needed.

Aderibole described the Awujale as a pillar of hope and development to the Yoruba race.

Going back memory lane, he said there were times the nation faced some challenges but with the fatherly roles of Oba Sikiru, normalcy returned to the nation.

YIF President also recalled when the goings were tough in Yorubaland but Oba Adetona intervened promptly to rescue the situations. He said, “The Awujale was a symbol of hope and peace all through his 65 years reign.

“We cannot forget his role in uniting the Yoruba race bringing comfort to all at a time he least expected.

“That we will dearly miss him is not an understatement. He will be greatly missed in the area of tradition and progress.

“One of his remarkable achievements was the annual traditional festival, Ojude-Oba, which brings thousands of Yoruba sons and daughters to Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

It is held on the third day after Eid el-Kabir where different cultural age groups parade at the front of the king’s palace.

“In local balance, Ojude Oba means king’s fore-court which Oba Adetona has taken to an amiable height.

“It is of note that Ijebuland witnessed remarkable achievements during his 65 years reign. We shall miss his elderly guidance and tutelage.”

As for the former President, Aderibole described him as a rallying point and political pillar whose vacuum will be difficult to fill.

“His patriotism was second to none.”

“Nigerians lost two giants at a time.” May their contributions to the success of the nation live on.” Said Aderibole.

Citizens Compass reported that Oba Sikiru Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigerian history.

Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR was

a Nigerian retired politician who served as the president of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. A retired Nigerian army major general, he was the military head of state of Nigeria from 31 December 1983 to 27 August 1985

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