President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has attributed part of his political success to the blessings and unwavering support of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing the revered monarch as a pillar of strength, wisdom and cultural pride.

Speaking during the eighth-day prayer held in honour of the late Awujale at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, President Tinubu described the monarch as a man of “integrity, humility, culture, and service to humanity.”

Mr. President recounted how the monarch\'s encouragement and prayers played a key role during pivotal moments in his political journey, especially his rise from Lagos State Governor to President of Nigeria.

 “I succeeded because of your support and the blessings of the late Awujale. I came to him; he blessed me and said, ‘You will win that election.’ Today, he is no more, but God has blessed us, especially if we heed the richness of his wisdom,” President Tinubu said.

He went on to describe Oba Adetona as bold, courageous and truthful, adding that the late monarch never wavered in his convictions and always stood for what was right, particularly during national crises such as the June 12 annulment struggle, when the Oba’s palace became a rallying point for resistance.

“Papa was steadfast, resolute, and very encouraging,” Tinubu recalled. “That he lived to witness the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day and was decorated with the Grand Commander of the Niger at age 90, is a source of immense pride.”

The President also praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for his dedication to the late monarch both in life and death, while urging Nigerians to uphold the values that Oba Adetona represented.

 “To honour this great man, we must be more united and bonded in the spirit he left behind. We have named institutions after him, but his true legacy lives on in how we reflect his values,” Tinubu added.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, paid a solemn visit to the Oba’s tomb at the Igbeba Palace, where he offered prayers and met privately with members of the royal family.

The President was joined at the prayer event by governors, ministers, senators, and other dignitaries, including Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and former governors Olusegun Osoba, Ibikunle Amosun, and Otunba Gbenga Daniel, among others.

The Grand Mufti of Yorubaland, Sheikh Abdulrazaq Abdul-Azeez Ishola and other Islamic clerics led prayers for the repose of the monarch’s soul, while also praising President Tinubu for honouring the Awujale with his presence.

Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona reigned for 65 years and passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91. He was buried the next day in adherenceto Islamic rites, leaving behind a legacy of courage, advocacy and cultural preservation that continues to inspire leaders across Nigeria.