By Agbaakin Tunde Adeleke and Pa Tafa Olawuyi
The news of the demise of two legends of our time has come as a rude shock to the Ẹgbẹ́ Àgbà Ìtẹ̀síwájú Yorùbá, and we deeply mourn the transition of these two towering figures in Nigeria’s recent history, namely His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; and His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.
We understand that death is inevitable. However, it calls for sober reflection when great men and women are passing on in quick, close succession. This is because the death of great people, by virtue of their uncommon, staggering accomplishment, usually leaves a vacuum that are usually irreplaceable. Our forefathers would say, k’á tó r’érin ó di’gbó, k’á tó r’ẹ́fọ̀n ó d’ọ̀dàn, k’á tó….
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, communities, constituencies and the nation they served with honour, as well as to all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. Their departures mark the end of significant chapters in the nation’s political and traditional leadership.
President Muhammadu Buhari was a statesman of no small means. He is a man of discipline and service in his own right.
President Buhari, throughout his military and civilian leadership, was known for his commitment to discipline, anti-corruption, and national stability. While his policies were often the subject of rigorous debate, as is the nature of democracy, his patriotic zeal and austere lifestyle left an indelible mark on the landscape of political governance in Nigeria. Perhaps he was not a politician in the real sense that we have come to experience in Nigeria. He will surely be remembered for his resilience, his simplicity of lifestyle, his commitment to national development, and democratic ideals for which he was so much despised during his military leadership.
President Buhari brought joy to Nigerians both times he came to power. Each time, he came as harbinger of glad tidings. This is because he was coming at a time when Nigerians were in dire need of change due to the misrule of the previous regimes. Each time he came, there were jubilations in most parts of the country. Although his reign came with certain pains, to him and to Nigerians, he did his own best. President Buhari gave Nigerians the expression: “corruption fighting back”, when he tried to fight corruption as a Nigerian president.
Oba Sikiru Adetona was a royal father of wisdom, discipline and courage.
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona reigned as the Awujale for over six decades. It was a reign defined by integrity, visionary leadership, and unwavering defence of truth and justice. He was a fearless monarch, a revered voice in Yorùbáland and beyond, a custodian of the Yoruba cultural heritage and a defender of the oppressed. His legacies in traditional leadership, education, and advocacy will live long after him.
This is a time for deep reflection and unity across the country.
At this solemn moment, we urge all Nigerians, especially the Yorùbá people, to reflect on the values of service, truth, discipline and unity which both departed leaders stood for. Their lives teach us the importance of living with purpose and serving both the country and the crown with honour.
The Ẹgbẹ́ Àgbà Ìtẹ̀síwájú Yorùbá prays that the Almighty God comfort their families, and that their souls find eternal rest and peace.
Sùn re o, Sai Buhari.
Sùn re o, Kabiyesi Adetona.
Nigeria and Yorùbáland shall not forget you both.
By Agbaakin Tunde Adeleke
Worldwide President
Pa Tafa Olawuyi
Secretary General
