The cancellation followed the invitation of the nominees and kingmakers by the Department of State Security, DSS, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

The announcement was made on Wednesday in a letter by the Secretary, Awujale Afobaje Council, Chief Ayotunde Ola Odulaja, to the Olórí Ẹbí of Fusengbuwa  -Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, Otunba Dokun Ajidagba and Prof. Fassy Yusuf.

The nominees were therefore directed to report to the DSS office in Ijebu Ode.

The letter reads:

“We write to formally inform you that the meet-and-greet earlier scheduled for this morning at the Aafin Awujale has been cancelled.

“Accordingly, the Awujale nominees are hereby directed to report to the Department of State Services (DSS) office located at:

State Security Service (SSS)

Along NTA Road,

Beside the State Psychiatric Hospital,

Off Igbeba Road,

Ijebu-Ode.

Time: 11:00 a.m. prompt.

“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this change may cause.

“Kindly ensure that all concerned nominees are punctual and comply strictly with this directive.

“Thank you for your cooperation.”

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The post BREAKING: Awujale: DSS invites kingmakers, nominees appeared first on Frontpageng.

In “Awujale and the funeral rites” by Abdu Rafiu (the pen name, I suppose, of Mr. Lade Bonuola, former Managing Director of The Guardian newspapers and my respected senior colleague), he recalled an interview granted by the oba on the occasion of his 86th birthday and 60th anniversary on the throne, in which he reportedly stated emphatically that “he was looking forward to meeting his Maker”. In other words, the main reason Adetona elected to be buried according to Islamic rites is that he considered burial according to traditional rites as idolatrous, which could debar him from “meeting his Maker”. Being a practising Muslim, Oba Adetona believed that the tenets of his religion compel how he should be buried; and that these stand him in pole position of “meeting his Maker” than if he is buried otherwise.

Thus, the argument as to whether or not Adetona observed traditional rites during his installation as oba and whether or not such rites mandate him to also be buried accordingly need not detain us here. Should Christians and Muslims not ready to go the whole hog of conforming to traditional rites dabble in chieftaincy matters? Are there such rites in the first place? If there are, what are they? Or should they not be disclosed to the uninitiated? Adetona not only contested that there were such rites, he also cast aspersion on those who said there were and who insisted they must be observed. Those questions, intriguing as they are, should be left for the kingmakers to answer. It should also lie within their powers to fashion out the modalities of ensuring compliance, if they consider such absolutely necessary.

Do funeral rites avail anything?

Now, does burial according to Islamic, Christian, traditional or whatever rites guarantee that the dead will meet his Maker? I do not think so! In my own view, the criterion that dictates whether or not the dead will meet his or her Maker is not the type of burial rites – or their absence – that the body of the deceased is subjected to. Hebrews 9:27 says it is appointed unto man to die but once, and after that is judgement – not burial! Christians believe that there is no repentance after death, which is why Christians do not pray or make supplications for the dead, but Muslims do. While we are still here on earth, it is difficult, in my own opinion, to emphatically say what is right and what is wrong in many respects as it pertains to religious dogmas and doctrines. Like the apostle Paul posits in 1 Corinthians 13: 9-12, we know in part and prophesy in part. Not until we get to heaven – and behold God face-to-face – do we have full knowledge of many of the things that we gallivant about here.

Should we still intercede for the dead?

Should we pray for the dead or not?  Revelation 14:13 says: “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Does this passage refer only to those who die in the Lord? What of those who do not? This passage is often interpreted to mean that once a person dies, his record is sealed; nothing can be added and nothing can be subtracted.

When a person dies, we may deposit the body in the morgue while we begin to shop for money to give a so-called “befitting burial.” We may give the children and other relatives who had JAPA enough time to JAPADA for the burial as preparations for an elaborate funeral are in top gear. Usually, Muslim burials are not as elaborate as those of Christians and traditionalists. But Heaven will have none of that! According to Hebrews 9:27 quoted above, once a person dies, Heaven immediately triggers the judgment mode, ever before the person is buried. The funeral rites following after death are none of their concerns in Heaven. So, if you like, bury; if you like, don’t bury. That is your own cup of tea, not theirs in Heaven!

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Now, the story is told of the spiritual leader of a prominent Pentecostal church in Nigeria who died and while emissaries were still going round summoning church leaders, Baba woke up again and began to agitatedly demand: “Please, help me look for them!” Who are the “them”? The story is also told that Baba came across a Christian tract whose message was so impactful that he thought the whole world must hear it. So he ordered a massive reproduction of the same tract. He did not alter the authorship. While his members were distributing these tracts, the copyright owners chanced upon them and accused Baba, who was anything but lettered, of plagiarism.

What kind of audacity would make a man think he could detain an aircraft or prevent it from flying?

Baba pleaded and turned over all the tracts to them to go and distribute. For him, all that mattered was for the message to reach the perishing souls, not who took credit. To his chagrin and utter consternation, the other party collected the pile of tracts printed by Baba and set everything ablaze! Baba screamed and stormed out of the venue in anger. That was the incident that nearly cost him his place in Heaven – but he was sent back at the gate to go and restitute. Now, in the light of Hebrews 9: 27, how do we explain what happened to Baba?

Will cadavers also make Heaven?

I am persuaded that what will make a man meet his Maker is certainly not the type of burial his dead body is subjected to. What of those who skip burial altogether by donating their dead bodies to teaching hospitals as cadavers? What of those who perish in air and such other crashes whose bodies are never found? Now, what kind of burial rites did Moses enjoy? What of Enoch and John the Baptist? All the disciples of Jesus, except John the Beloved, died cruel deaths. What burial rites did they enjoy? Did they – or did they not – meet their Maker?

From time immemorial, religion has been employed to manipulate the people, leading Karl Marx to describe it as the opium of the people. In recent times, not only has poverty been weaponized against the poor and hapless, religion no less!

People who despise their own traditions and customs travel to foreign lands at great costs and personal discomfort to observe and tremble before the traditions and customs of foreigners who, justifiably, look down on them and treat them as objects lesser than human worth!

Yet, before our very eyes we saw the English observe and uphold their own customs and traditions during the burial of their late monarch, Queen Elizabeth 11! We dare not describe such rites as idolatrous! We were also too shell-shocked to rage at the Ku Klux Klan-like parade that attended the burial of Pope Francis in April this year!

At no time than this does the need to decolonize our minds become more imperative!

Tell KWAM 1 to watch it!

Ogho (Owo) elders have a saying: When a mistake or mishap happens for the first time, they call it “the yam”. When it repeats itself, they describe it as “the peels of the yam”. But when it reoccurs the third time, they say it is “the point of no return”! Tell Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Olasunkanmi Omogbolahan Anifowoshe aka KWAM 1, to watch it, lest it becomes his every time, and all the time, as they say! Like the Tortoise!

How long ago was a private call to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made to go viral, wherein he used first person singular tense to address the country’s Number One citizen! In age, position, wealth – everything – is Tinubu his mate? The fact that he is regarded by many as the President’s official (?) musician does not mean he should take liberty for licence. He must note that the Oyinbo that made pencils also made erazer!

What kind of audacity would make a man think he could detain an aircraft or prevent it from flying? Because he knows the President? Because of his fame as a crooner? Or because of his wealth? Like we heard someone taunt him in the video that has now gone viral, why did Wasiu duck in the nick of time? Why not maintain his “I-will-not-yield” stance and let the wing of the aircraft do its worst?

The explanations of those trying to explain away Wasiu’s action did not wash; even as the preliminary decision of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) appears ludicrous. One explanation said what Wasiu had in his flask was his doctor’s prescription; another said it was nothing but water. Whichever, why not hand it over to the officials on demand? For goodness sake, why spill something on somebody? Because you are a “big man”? Remember how a National Assembly member shamelessly treated an Uber driver in the same Abuja sometime ago? Assuming you even have a grouse, there are more appropriate ways of lodging a protest.

In case Wasiu did not know, the scenes created have serious implications. One: It demarkets the KWAM 1 brand. Two: it must have embarrassed his teeming fans. Three: it would be a source of anguish for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu if his association with Wasiu is factored into this. Four: Imagine if the aircraft had run Wasiu over? What a great loss it would have been to Wasiu himself, his family, fans, and the country as a whole! Five: The incident has caused the airline – for no fault of its own – great financial loss and reputational damage. Six: The pilot’s own shortcomings notwithstanding, an incident that shouldn’t have arisen at all has now been allowed to jeopardise someone else’s professional career. Seven: The lives of other passengers were needlessly put at risk; not to talk of time lost and denial of comfort and peace of mind. Eight: Man-hours and resources will now be expended by aviation agencies and personnel to try and handle this infraction on air safety.

For example, the NCAA has placed a six-month “no-fly” ban on Wasiu as well as suspended the pilot of the aircraft while also vowing that “everybody involved… will be brought to book” and that it “will do everything we can to get to the root of it. Everybody who needs to be punished or sanctioned will receive justice”! Haa! If you haven’t got to the “root” of the matter, where, then, did the punishment already meted out to Wasiu and the pilot come from – from the “leaves”, “branches” or “stem” of the matter? What kind of “justice” will Wasiu and the pilot again get? Does this speak volumes about the quality of the personnel that superintend our affairs?

NB: Wasiu has apologised! That is good. Maybe it will mitigate his full punishment in the final analysis.

*Bolawole (turnpot@gmail.com 0807 552 5533), former Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Chairman of its Editorial Board and Deputy Editor-in-chief, was also the Managing Director/ Editor-in-chief of the Westerner newsmagazine. He writes the “ON THE LORD’S DAY” column in the Sunday Tribune and “TREASURES” column in the New Telegraph newspapers. He is also a public affairs analyst on radio and television.

The post Oba Adetona and the hypocrisy of religionists, By Bolanle Bolawole appeared first on Frontpageng.

The Governor immediately wielded the big stick. On November 23, 1981, Oba Adetona was suspended from office as the Awujale of Ijebuland. Onabanjo also set up a commission of enquiry to probe the affairs of the suspended Oba Adetona. The commission quickly recommended the deposition of Oba Adetona as Awujale of Ijebu. The monarch remained suspended while the case was stalled in court for three years. Then, on December 31, 1983, a military coup led by Buhari upended the Nigerian Second Republic. All the elected officials were removed from power, including Onabanjo. Oladipo Diya became the military governor of Ogun state. A few months later, a high court overturned the findings of Onabanjo’s commission on Oba Adetona, and the monarch was restored to the throne.

It was Marcus Tulius Cicero (January 3, 106 BC – December 7 43 BC) who stated in one of his famous quotes that “The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.” Indeed, the legacy and impact of a person who has died continues to exist through the memories and recollections of those who knew them. Their influence on others, their stories, and their contributions to the world are kept alive through remembrance.

In this piece, I shall attempt to place on record, the contributions and impact of these two individuals on the life of Nigerians, starting with former President Buhari. Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, to Adamu and Zulaiha Buhari, he was raised by his mother, following the death of his father when he was about four years old. He had his primary education in Daura and Maidua from 1948 to 1952, before proceeding to Katsina Middle School in 1953. Subsequently, he attended the Katsina Provincial Secondary School (now Government College, Katsina) from 1956 to 1961, before joining the Nigerian Army in 1961 and rose through the ranks. The military coup of December, 1983, led to the emergence of General Buhari as the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, a position in which he served until August, 1985, when he was removed in a palace coup.

His legacy while in power was that of a no-nonsense General that was in a hurry to whip all Nigerians into line. Indeed, one of the most enduring legacies of his administration was the establishment of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI), launched on March 20, 1984. That policy tried to address the perceived lack of public morality and civic responsibility on Nigerian society. His administration faced criticism for its stern measures, yet even detractors acknowledged Buhari’s personal integrity. He was austere, incorruptible, and firmly committed to the idea of a disciplined and functional Nigeria.

Economically, the Buhari regime emphasised frugality — slashing public spending, banning foreign loans by state governments, curbing imports, and promoting industrialisation. Yet, his tenure was criticised for its authoritarian tendencies: the jailing of public officials without trial, the suppression of the press, and sweeping human rights violations. After his removal from office, Buhari quietly withdrew from public life and lived in Kaduna.

Remarkably, Buhari’s legacy expanded further when he returned to politics as a democratic leader. After three unsuccessful presidential bids, he achieved a historic victory in 2015, defeating an incumbent President – an unprecedented milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey. But at the age of 72, a period when most men seek retirement, Buhari courageously assumed leadership to address Nigeria’s critical issues of insecurity, corruption, and institutional decay.

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But his presidency was dogged by criticism. Many accused him of running an insular, nepotistic government — citing lopsided appointments heavily tilted towards his Northern base.

In one of his reviews of his own administration, he felt bad that there was little he could at the age of 72, believing, rightly, that he would have achieved more if he had been a younger President by the time he took office in 2015. He spent several weeks out of the country to seek medical treatment in London. Instead of establishing state-of-the-art medical facilities at home, most Nigerian leaders believe in seeking medical care outside the shores of the country. Buhari was not an exception.

Buhari and Adetona have done their bit and departed, but their legacies would live on in the minds of Nigerians for several generations. May their souls rest in perfect peace.

Many knew of his little knowledge of the economy, but believed – and rightly so – that his military background would go a long way in tackling insecurity that was festering in the country when he assumed office in 2015. The insurgent group, Boko Haram, was having a free reign in in the North with lives being lost on a daily basis.  In fact, the statistics paint a grim picture. According to the Nigeria Security Tracker, over 63,000 Nigerians were killed in violent incidents during Buhari’s eight years in office, averaging about 22 deaths per day. The worst years were between 2019 and 2021, with annual deaths exceeding 9,000. The government’s failure to significantly curb kidnappings, banditry, and communal violence undermined Buhari’s initial campaign promise to restore security.

Again, Fulani herders and farmers’ clashes became a daily occurrence, with lives of farmers threatened by herders. But his government took sides with his kinsmen – the cow herders – insisting that they have the right to move their cows from one part of the country to others in search of food for their cattle.

On the economic front, his administration faced inflation that more than doubled, rising from about nine per cent in 2015 to over 22 per cent by 2023, while unemployment surged from 10.4 per cent in 2015 to 33.4 per cent in 2020. Tackling corruption was a cornerstone of Buhari’s campaign rhetoric, and while some high-profile prosecutions occurred, critics argue that the effort was selective and failed to uproot entrenched graft. Institutional reforms were largely neglected, allowing corruption to fester.

In the dying days of his administration, Buhari allowed the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to introduce a dubious exchange rate policy as well as the redesign of the Naira that led to the death of many Nigerians. Today, Emefiele is having his days in court. The fuel subsidy regime, which Buhari once described as fraudulent, persisted for most of his time in office. Meanwhile, Nigeria overtook India as the world’s poverty capital under his watch.

He was widely known for his Spartan lifestyle – a trait that distinguished him from many of his contemporaries in Nigerian and African politics. Throughout his career, Buhari projected an image of personal austerity, modesty, and discipline. He avoided lavish living, kept a relatively low profile outside of official duties, and was seen as frugal in both private and public conduct. This personal simplicity became a central part of his public persona and contributed significantly to his reputation for integrity.

Now to his friend, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland. Born on Thursday, May 10, 1934, to Omo Oba Rufai Adetona and Wulemot Ajibabi Adetona (née Onashile) of Ijebu Igbo, Sikiru’s royal path seemed carved from birth. His father, a contender for the Awujale stool, surrendered his claim so that his son, studying Accountancy in the United Kingdom, could ascend the revered throne of Ijebu Ode. His early life traversed the bustling classrooms of Baptist School, Ereko, Ogbere United Primary School, and Ansarudeen Primary School, all in Ijebu Ode. His formative years at Olu Iwa College (now Adeola Odutola College) prepared him for an initial career in the civil service, first with the Western Region Ministry of Finance in Ibadan, then onward to the United Kingdom to study as an aspiring Chartered Accountant. His 65-year reign stands as one of Nigeria’s longest and most influential traditional tenures – a legacy steeped in splendour, turbulence, and the audacity to defy even the most powerful.

Oba Adetona will be remembered as a visionary bridge-builder between tradition and modernity. He revitalised the Ijebu age-grade system — the Regberegbe — giving young Ijebus a sense of cultural pride and structured communal service. He championed the Ijebu Development Board on Poverty Reduction, which created economic opportunities for indigent citizens. Under his watch, the annual Ojude Oba festival, once a modest Muslim homage, became a world-renowned cultural carnival, drawing tourists and uniting the diaspora. He modernised the Ijebu palace with the iconic Ojude Pavilion and used his influence to push for infrastructural development across Ijebuland.

The life of Oba Adetona was marked by courage, commitment to democratic ideals as well as the pursuit of greater development of Ijebu land and Nigeria as a whole. For instance, during the struggles after the annulment of the Late MKO Abiola’s June 12 presidential election, Oba Adetona was amongst the royal fathers who never pretended that the military had overstayed and that there was an urgent need to return the country to the democratic path.

The paramount ruler also cleverly stood up against the military dictator, the late General Sani Abacha, who had wanted to kill his then deputy, the late General Oladipupo Diya, a distinguished son from Odogbolu, Ijebu land, over what was alleged to be a phantom coup.

Towards the twilight of his reign, Oba Adetona, tried to modernise the Obaship institution in the state by ensuring that the Ogun State Government signed into law, a new legislation that allows Obas in the state to be buried according to their faith. The development follows the enforcement of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empowers traditional rulers to be buried according to their personal religious convictions rather than strictly by native rites.

Specifically, Section 55 of the law provides that while customary practices may still be applied during a monarch’s burial, these must comply with the wishes of the deceased and follow outlined procedures. Subsections (iii) to (v) spell out the procedural safeguards required to apply traditional customs, effectively allowing a monarch to opt out of ancestral rites. And that was what happened during his burial, as soldiers ensured that Oba Adeona was given an Islamic burial.

Traditionalists accused the government of eroding centuries-old customs and the matter is still generating reactions beyond the shores of Ogun State till today.

Buhari and Adetona have done their bit and departed, but their legacies would live on in the minds of Nigerians for several generations. May their souls rest in perfect peace.

See you next week.

The post The legacies of Buhari and Awujale, By Kazeem Akintunde appeared first on Frontpageng.

The ceremony marked the culmination of mourning and celebration for a royal father who ruled for 65 years and left an indelible mark on the Ijebu community.

Oba Adetona, aged 91, passed away on July 13 and was laid to rest the following day, in line with his expressed religious wishes.

By 8:00 a.m., crowds of residents had begun arriving at the Dipo Dina Stadium, venue of the event.

The stadium was a sea of colours, as men, women, and youths appeared in traditional and modern attire, reflecting the cultural richness of Ijebu heritage.

Traditional drums echoed across the venue, with local groups performing chants and dances in tribute to the late traditional ruler’s life and enduring legacy.

At Oba Adetona’s private residence, where President Bola Tinubu is expected to stop first, religious leaders and dignitaries gathered in solemn reflection and prayer.

The gathering included Muslim and Christian clerics, traditional rulers, political leaders, and citizens, all united in their respect for the late Oba.

Some dignitaries said that President Tinubu’s planned visit symbolised national recognition of Oba Adetona’s significance beyond Ijebu community and Ogun.

Sen. Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, described the event as a solemn yet befitting occasion to honour one of Nigeria’s legendary traditional rulers.

Daniel said, “The news of the President attending brought joy across Ijebuland. It highlights the close relationship between the President and our royal father.

“The President’s presence at the prayers is historic. It will be remembered for generations across the Ijebu nation as a mark of deep respect.”

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Also, Sheik Abdulrazaq Ishola, Grand Mufti of Muslims in Yoruba land, described the president’s attendance at the prayers as a significant gesture of honour to a revered and deserving Oba.

“The president’s attendance is not political but deeply symbolic. Oba Adetona was a pillar of support and faith throughout his life,” Ishola noted.

He recalled how the late Oba bridged tradition and religion gracefully and had insisted on Islamic burial rites while he was alive.

Ishola further remembered Oba Adetona’s advocacy for a bill that would allow traditional rulers to be buried in accordance with their religious beliefs.

The Islamic leader revealed that the Awujale had been recognised as Grand Commander of Muslim Obas in Yoruba land due to his unwavering Islamic commitment.

Most Rev. Michael Fape, Bishop of the Remo Anglican Diocese, eulogised the Oba as one who embraced and respected all religions during his reign.

“He led his people with wisdom and tolerance. Though Muslim, he related warmly with Christians and traditionalists alike,” Bishop Fape stated.

He recalled his close relationship with the late Oba, saying, “Oba Adetona lived above religious bias.

“He treated all faiths equally, as a true paramount ruler.”

Many in the Ijebu community echoed these sentiments, remembering the late Awujale as a unifying figure who transcended ethnic and religious boundaries.

Major markets such as Ita-Ale, Ita-Osu, and Oke-Aje were temporarily shut to enable full participation in the farewell ceremonies.

Traders and residents used the opportunity to offer prayers, sing traditional songs, and reflect on the Oba’s numerous contributions to their community.

The closure of economic activity highlighted the deep respect held for Oba Adetona and the significance of the eight-day prayer ceremony.

As Ijebu Ode mourned and celebrated, many said the Awujale’s passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy would live on.

Source: NAN

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WHAT’S IN A NAME?

None of the three notable Nigerians died young. Oba Olakulehin, who rose to the rank of a Major in the Nigerian Army, departed at what our people would describe as the “ripe old age” of 90 years; Buhari at 82 (official age, I suppose!) and the Awujale at 91. Enthroned on July 12, 2024, the Olubadan was a few days short of sitting on the throne for one full year. He waited long enough, however, to celebrate his 90th birthday on 5th July. His passage has cleared the way for a former governor of Oyo state and one-time senator of the Federal Republic, Rashidi Ladoja, to ascend to the throne as the 44th Olubadan. Whenever anyone asks the oft-repeated rhetorical question of “what’s in a name”, the story of Oba Olakulehin should answer them with a sharp and unambiguous “Plenty!“ Olakulehin literally means there are still many good things to come. And it came for him even at 89 years! Never say it is over until it is over. Don’t write off anyone. There is the glory of the latter days!

OBASANJO VERSUS LADOJA

Talking about not writing off anyone, the story of the tango between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Ladoja, when the latter was the governor of Oyo state, has started to gain currency on social media. The story is told of how Ladoja advised Obasanjo to perish the thought of a third term in office. Wily OBJ thanked the governor but purposed in his heart to punish him for his unsolicited advice. Walls, they say, have ears; so word leaked that OBJ harboured sinister intentions against Ladoja and two governors of the time reportedly dragged Ladoja before OBJ to tender an unreserved apology. Rather than his anger being assuage, OBJ reportedly ordered Ladoja to resign or he, OBJ, would reduce him to nothing! Ladoja reportedly refused to resign and, as to the threat to reduce him to nothing, he was said to have replied with a terse “If God permits you”. Were the threats carried out? Of course! Ladoja was impeached kangaroo-style but he fought his case in court, won the battle and returned as governor. He, however, could not have a second term in office.

With the controversies over the late Oyo State’s Gov. Isiaka Ajimobi’s reforms of the Ibadan chieftaincy laws, which pitched Ladoja on the one hand against Ajimobi and the other Ibadan chiefs on the other, it was as if Ladoja’s path to the Olubadan throne had been strewn with thorns and thistles. Commonsense and statesmanship however prevailed under the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde, and the issues in contention were amicably resolved. So, after observing the rights of passage for the late Olubadan, a date for Ladoja’s coronation will be announced. Long may the king reign!

Artificial Intelligence is already abuzz with the photographs of Obasanjo prostrating full length before a regal Ladoja. This may not be a mere prank or suggestion; it may not even be an attempt at mocking the former President or a reminder that no man should play God. Obasanjo has been a latter-day respecter of the customs and traditions of the Yoruba; he has prostrated before Yoruba obas far younger in age than him and there is nothing that suggests he cannot rise above the pettiness of the past to do similarly for Ladoja. And, of course, we should expect Ladoja to be magnanimous in victory.

IJEBU STATE WITHOUT OBA ADETONA

The passage of another illustrious Yoruba oba, Oba Sikiru Adetona, came exactly one week after the Olubadan. If Oba Olakulehin’s reign was short, that of Oba Adetona was long. Installed on 2 April, 1960 (before the country gained its flag Independence), he reigned a little over 65 years. Many generations of Ijebu sons and daughters have not known any monarch other than Oba Adetona. In fact, the kingmakers must be dusting the books and refreshing their memory about the processes and procedures for the selection of another Awujale! While many princes may have started jostling for who steps into the shoes vacated by Oba Adetona, the identity of the next Awujale still remains in the womb of time. The Ijebus must be grateful that their oba waited to celebrate the last Ojude Oba before travelling to the land of the ancestors; otherwise, the iconic festival, which takes place on the third day after the Muslim Eid-al Kabir or Sallah (“Ileya” festival, as the Yoruba call it), could have experienced a hiccup. Ojude Oba is a vibrant cultural and traditional event hosted by the Ijebus, home and abroad, to honour the Awujale. This year’s event took place on 8 June, 2025.

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All the same, the Ijebus will rue the loss of their influential oba at this point in time, especially with their push for a state of their own. The National Assembly is going round gauging the pulse of the people and collecting memoranda for a review of the Constitution. The Ijebus have been vociferous in their demand for Ijebu state and their monarch had led the way. Recently, he was quoted as saying that the incumbent, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has promised him the Ijebu state of his dream. Now that he is gone, who leads the Ijebus, especially with all the controversies that usually trail state creation exercises? The demand for Ijebu state has not been an exception.

Well, say no evil of the dead – because that is the inevitable end of all mortals. And no one is perfect! May the souls of the departed rest in peace!

THE ONDO STATE CONNECTION

As I made to scribble this, a friend called and asked if I was aware of the danger that the demand for an Ijebu state portends for our own long-existing Ondo state. I wasn’t and I told him so. He then volunteered that Ilaje, the oil-producing part of Ondo state, has been included in the proposed Ijebu state by some of its canvassers. “How on earth is Ilaje part of Ijebu?”, he asked, before adding that if the canvassers succeed, then, they would not only have denied Ondo state its status as an oil-producing state, and of the resources and privileges appertaining therefrom, but would also have rendered it landlocked.

I reasoned that it was far-fetched that Ilaje could be hijacked from Ondo state into Ijebu state but he warned me to perish the thought! “When they accuse Tinubu of favouring the Yoruba with appointments – which is not true, anyway – the majority of those appointees are from Ogun state. Many of the appointments that go to Lagos actually are cornered by the Egbas and Ijebus”, he said. The inference here is that the Ijebus can leverage the many influential people they command around Mr. President to shortchange a marginalised state like Ondo.

IJEBU STATE VERSUS REMO STATE

If that appears superfluous, the tango between Ijebu and Remo over the new state is not. Antagonists on both sides are oiling their “war” machines. Some powerful politicians, like Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former two-term governor of Ogun state and now a serving senator representing Ogun East senatorial district, appear already caught in the crossfire of how to resolve the issues in contention.

What should the new state be called: Ijebu state or Ijebu-Remo (patterned after Akwa-Ibom)? Where will the capital be located: Ijebu-Ode or Shagamu? Taking a cue from the old colonial arrangement of provinces as administrative units, the Ijebus want the then Ijebu province to now become Ijebu state with headquarters at Ijebu-ode. Remo would have none of that as they do not want to be part of any Ijebu state. They want their own Remo state with headquarters at Shagamu. Note that the Remo people have thrown overboard the Ijebu hitherto attached to their name (Ijebu-Remo) and are now simply known, called and addressed as Remo! They argue that they are an entirely different people from the Ijebus: that while the Ijebus have said they migrated from Sudan, the Remo people migrated from Iremo quarters in Ile-Ife and have retained and maintained their affinities with their roots to this day.

ARE THE YORUBA MONOLITHIC?

It can get very interesting! Egbado people in the same Ogun state have jettisoned that name and are now known, called and addressed as Yewa. In my own native Ogho (Owo), the Ijebu-Owo people have yanked off the “Owo” in their age-old name and now call themselves Ijebu! And my mind went to my editor and mentor, Comrade Nojeem Jimoh, who posits that the Yoruba are only Yoruba because there is Nigeria but that the moment we exit Nigeria and have our own Yoruba or Oodua Nation, we will all go back to what we used to be – Egba, Ijebu, Remo, Awori, Egun, Ekiti, Ogho, Ondo, Akoko, Akure, Ikale, Oyo, Ijesa, Okun, name it! It can get really scary! The various nationalities making up what we know today as Yorubaland fought, perhaps, the longest inter-tribal war in history, from 1789 (the year the French Revolution started) to 1893 (the year the Franco-Russian Alliance was signed in Europe), a total of over 104 years. Those wars – and the lack of unity among the various Yoruba nationalities – accounted in a large measure for why they were easily worsted by the invading British colonial forces and also why Ilorin was not retrieved from the Fulani jihadists. The sentiments expressed here must, however, not be taken to mean opposition to the realisation of a Yoruba or Oodua nation but a clarion call that, even after its realization, we have work to do! We have mountains to climb!

BUHARI: HERO OR VILLAIN?

As would be expected, Buhari’s demise has been received with mixed feelings. There have been the hypocrisy of the political class evidenced by the torrents of tributes poured on the late president but the reaction of many ordinary citizens has been tepid and subdued, slightly different from what was demonstrated at the death of the vile dictator, Sani Abacha. Had Buhari ended his political career when he was toppled as military Head of State in 1985; had he not insisted on being a civilian president; and had he not succeeded in that endeavour, he would have died more of a national hero and would have been better celebrated than anything the ruling class has accorded him now. But he squandered virtually all the goodwill he brought to the Presidency. His death, however, portends political consequences. All those angling for his endorsement to reap political advantage in 2026/2027 must now rue what lies ahead. Those who shout from the rooftop that they are Buharists, how market?

Well, say no evil of the dead – because that is the inevitable end of all mortals. And no one is perfect! May the souls of the departed rest in peace!

*Bolawole (turnpot@gmail.com 0807 552 5533), former Editor of PUNCH newspapers, Chairman of its Editorial Board and Deputy Editor-in-chief, was also the Managing Director/ Editor-in-chief of the Westerner newsmagazine. He writes the “ON THE LORD’S DAY” column in the Sunday Tribune and “TREASURES” column in the New Telegraph newspapers. He is also a public affairs analyst on radio and television.

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Image shows Amosun at the Ogbagba Court in Igbeba, Ijebu Ode, recently.

Awujale died on Sunday and was buried on Monday.

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He said the departure of Oba Adetona, who he described as one of the oldest traditional rulers in Nigeria, marked the end of an era in the country, especially in Ijebuland, where he ruled for 65 years.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the late Awujale’s service to the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State would remain his enduring legacy.

The governor described Oba Adetona as an icon, a hero and a respected monarch who served his subjects passionately and contributed to the political, economic and social development and growth of Ijebuland.

Governor Sanwo-Olu commiserated with his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the deceased family and the entire people of Ijebuland and Ogun State over the passing of the paramount ruler.

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He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I commiserate with my brother, Governor Dapo Abiodun; the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State; the traditional institution; and the deceased family, on the transition of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who joined his ancestors same day as the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR.

“The passing of Oba Adetona, who ruled for 65 years, is an end to a glorious era and remarkable reign of an outstanding traditional ruler in Ijebuland and Nigeria. His passage to the Great Beyond was a great loss to the people of Ijebu, and he will be greatly missed.

“Oba Sikiru Adetona made positive impacts during his lifetime. He contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of Ijebuland. He worked for the interest of the people during his lifetime, earning the respect of his subjects.

“I pray that Almighty God be pleased with the soul of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona and grant the royal family and the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

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MUSWEN made this assertion in a condolence message on the transition of the revered paramount ruler of Ijebuland.

The statement, signed by Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, President and Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya, Executive Secretary/CEO, reads:

“MUSWEN mourns Oba Sikiru Adetona, reformer monarch who balanced culture with Islamic values

“The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) is deeply saddened by the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who departed this world on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

“The late monarch was the President of the Ogun Muslim Council, one of the pillars of MUSWEN . The League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland equally made him the Leader of all Muslim Obas in Yorubaland at their last Conference held in Ijebu-Ode in 2024.

“Oba Adetona was not only a revered traditional ruler but also a tireless advocate for the rights of traditional rulers to be buried according to their religious beliefs.

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“His efforts culminated in the enactment of the Obas and Chiefs Laws of Ogun State 2021, which respects the dignity and faith of traditional rulers in matters of burial rites. This landmark achievement ensures that traditional rulers, regardless of their faith, can be laid to rest in a manner that honours their personal convictions.

“As a Muslim, Oba Adetona’s commitment to Islamic values was evident in his life and work.

“He was a custodian of Yoruba culture who understood the importance of balancing tradition with faith. His legacy will continue to guide us in promoting harmony between cultural heritage and religious principles.

“MUSWEN extends its sincerest condolences to the royal family, the people of Ijebuland, Muslims in Ogun State and South West Nigeria and indeed all Nigerians.

“May Allah be pleased with him, admit his soul into Aljannatul Firdaus.”

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Ogun State government announced the burial rites on Monday in a press statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi.

This is as it urged residents of the state to remember the family of the revered monarch in their prayers.

Adetona joined his ancestors on Sunday at the age of 91.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State made the formal announcement in a statement he issued on Sunday.

FrontPage reports that the governor, while mourning, declared that the extraordinary life of Oba Adetona and honour his contributions brought to Nigeria should be celebrated.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also expressed sadness over the passing of Adetona.

The president said he received the transition of the Awujale with double pain in his heart as it coincided with the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general,” the president remarked.

He described Adetona as a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty.

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The death of Adetona was announced on Sunday.

The president said he received the transition of the Awujale with double pain in his heart as it coincided with the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general,” the president remarked.

He described Adetona as a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty.

The statement he personally signed reads in full:

“One of Nigeria’s most outstanding, foremost, and revered traditional rulers, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, has joined his ancestors after over 65 remarkable years on the throne.

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“I received the news of this transition Sunday night with double pain in my heart as it coincided with the passing of my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari. The demise of Oba Adetona has left an enormous void within the traditional institutions in Yorubaland and Nigeria in general.

“Oba Adetona was a towering natural ruler who served his people with dignity, panache, class, and an unmistakable sense of duty.

“During his remarkable reign that witnessed tremendous progress and development in Ijebu-Ode and the entire Ijebuland, Oba Adetona provided uncompromising leadership to his people.

“In his over six decades on the throne, ascending at 26, Oba Adetona used his role as a foremost ruler to advance the cause of progress and national unity. In a time of national crisis and uncertainty, he stood firmly as a voice of reason.

“I enjoyed an excellent personal relationship with Kabiyesi. I will forever cherish our time together.

“He was an honest arbiter, confidante, and reliable leader without any guile. I found his company comforting, wisdom enriching, and candour empowering.

“Oba Adetona’s sterling qualities of service,  philanthropy, investment in education, and research through the School of Postgraduate and Research Studies in Governance at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, will be enduring monuments in his memory.

“As the nation mourns Oba Adetona’s passing, I extend my condolences to the family, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government, the people of Ogun State, and sons and daughters of Ijebuland.

“May our departed Kabiyesi find eternal rest, and may we be comforted by his legacy of outstanding service.”

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