LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona is set to mark his 64th coronation anniversary and 90th birthday ceremony.
Awujale who is known as the World’s longest reigning monarch with sixty-four years of leadership was crowned on April 2, 1960, six months before Nigeria’s independence.
Baagbimo of Ijebu and spokesperson, Central Planning Committee, Fassy Adetokunboh Yusuf, made this known in a piece to eulogise the Oba.
He said preparations to honour the remarkable journey of the world’s longest-serving paramount monarch are in top gear.
“With sixty-four years of exemplary leadership, Oba Sikiru Adetona’s reign has been characterised by a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, propelling Ijebuland to new heights of prosperity and cultural renaissance.”
According to him, the event which will commence on May 3, 2024 will witness the commissioning of the School of Governance, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye to be officially inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
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“The School showcases the widespread recognition of Oba Adetona’s contributions to education and good governance,” Yusuf said.
The other events include thanksgiving services, book presentation, annual professorial lecture, documentary on the monarch, and a grand civic reception in honour of Oba Adetona’s “unparalleled commitment to his people and the preservation of Ijebu ethos.
“This milestone 64th coronation anniversary and 90th birthday celebration are not just about honouring Oba Sikiru Adetona’s personal achievements but also recognising the resilience, unity, and progress of Ijebuland under his esteemed leadership.
“The two events are momentous occasions for all of us to come together and celebrate a monarch whose reign has been marked by grace, relevance, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of his subjects and the country.
“Dignitaries, royalties, government functionaries, the international communities, community leaders, and other well-wishers from far and wide are expected to converge in Ijebu-Ode to join in the festivities and pay homage to a monarch whose legacies transcend generations,” he added.
About His Reign
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Yusuf noted that the coronation ceremony of Oba Awujala was witnessed 64 years ago by an unprecedented crowd, including prominent leaders such as Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo.
“Despite facing various challenges until 1984, Oba Adetona’s leadership has been characterized by impeccable character, unwavering independence, and a dedication to the progress of his people.
“The origin of the Ijebu people has been debated, but the most likely account states that they migrated from the Southern Sudanese region known as Owadaiye.
“Oba Adetona’s appointment as the Awujale of Ijebuland was officially approved on January 4, 1960, and his presentation to the world took place on January 18, 1960. This marked a new era for the Ijebu people and the beginning of a remarkable reign,” he added.
Continuing, he said not only has Oba Adetona raised the status of his people, but he has also made remarkable contributions to education in Nigeria.
“He fought to retain the Tai Solarin University of Education, the first university of education in the country, and served as Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola, Crescent University, Abeokuta, and currently, Hallmark University, Itele-Ijebu.
“The recent renaming of the Tai Solarin College of Education to Oba Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Science, and Technology further solidifies his commitment to education.
“Oba Adetona’s leadership has modernized the traditional institution in Ijebuland, attracting successful technocrats, professionals, and business moguls of royal lineage.
“He has actively worked to eliminate outdated and fetish practices, making the institution more appealing to a wider audience. The Ogun State Government has also followed his lead by outlawing barbaric practices in the coronation and burial of traditional rulers in the state,” he said.