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IJEBULAND MAJOR MARKETS CLOSED IN HONOUR OF LATE AWUJALE

The Ijebu Ode Local Government has announced the temporary closure of all major markets within its jurisdiction as a mark of honour and deep respect for the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona CFR, who passed away recently. Effective Monday, July 14, 2025, the markets that will remain closed include Ita-Ale Market, Ita-Osu Market, and Oke-Aje Market. The closure is in line with the cultural traditions of the people of Ijebuland, allowing all sons and daughters to mourn the monumental loss. The Executive Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu, stated that normal market activities would resume on a date to be communicated in due course, after consultation with the appropriate traditional authorities. “We urge all traders and residents to comply peacefully and respectfully. May the soul of our beloved Kabiyesi rest in perfect peace,” Alebiosu said. The closure is a testament to the revered status of the late monarch, who was known for his wisdom and leadership. The people of Ijebuland are expected to pay their last respects to their beloved Kabiyesi in the coming days.

AWUJALE OF IJEBULAND, OBA SIKIRU KAYODE ADETONA, DIES AT 91

The revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, has passed away at the age of 91. The monarch died on Sunday, hours after the announcement of the death of his longtime friend and former President, Muhammadu Buhari. Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, reigned for over 64 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigerian history. Born on May 10, 1934, he was a member of the House of Anikinaiya and was installed as king at a relatively young age. The monarch’s death comes as a shock to his subjects and the wider Nigerian community. Until his demise, Oba Adetona served as a symbol of unity and stability in the Ijebu Kingdom, a traditional state in Nigeria. The timing of his death is particularly poignant, given that it occurred just hours after the announcement of the passing of his long-time friend, Muhammadu Buhari, who died in a clinic in London, United Kingdom, after battling illness for some time.