Awujale Stool versus Awujale the Person

 

The passing of Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, Ogbagba Agbotewole II, the revered Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, has opened up a wide range of conversations across Ijebuland and beyond. His transition did not just mark the end of an era; it reawakened debates about the distinction between the Awujale stool—a sacred, cultural institution—and the man who occupied it for over six decades.

Across Nigeria and the global Ijebu diaspora, emotions have poured out—some in deep admiration, others in criticism. While many continue to eulogize his towering legacy, there are also those who express dissent about aspects of his reign, sometimes harshly and without decorum. These divergent views underscore the magnitude of the man and the weight of the throne he occupied.

The Celebrated Legacy of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona

There is no question that the late Awujale left an extraordinary imprint on Ijebuland. His admirers describe him as one of the most progressive, outspoken, and influential monarchs in modern Nigerian history. Among his many achievements:

1. A Global Rebranding of the Ijebu Identity

Oba Adetona elevated the Ijebu identity to unprecedented heights. Under his watch, being Ijebu became synonymous with dignity, pride, and excellence. He stood firmly for his people, ensuring that no individual or institution could denigrate the Ijebu nation without consequence.

2. Modernization of the Ijebu Traditional Institution

He skillfully blended tradition with modern governance. From administrative restructuring to dispute resolution, he positioned the Awujale stool as a model of integrity, discipline, and strategic leadership in Nigeria’s traditional rulership landscape.

3. Human Capital Development and the Ijebu Renaissance

The Late Awujale nurtured a generation of Ijebu elites—business moguls, scholars, political leaders, technocrats, and cultural ambassadors. His influence helped create a network of Ijebu professionals who continue to dominate many spheres of national and global development.

4. Courageous Leadership and Fearless Advocacy

He was famously fearless. Whether confronting political oppression, exposing corruption, or stating uncomfortable truths, Awujale Adetona never hesitated to defend justice and fairness—even when his opinions attracted backlash. This courage endeared him to many Nigerians beyond Ijebuland.

5. Socio-Economic Contributions

From promoting community development associations to inspiring philanthropic gestures across Ijebu communities, he championed infrastructural and cultural renewal. His support for institutions like the Oba Sikiru Adetona College of Governance further cemented his educational legacy.

These achievements solidified his status as one of the longest-reigning and most impactful traditional rulers in contemporary Africa.

The Controversies and Criticisms: The Man Behind the Crown

Yet, as with every great leader, his reign was not without criticism. The debates around his shortcomings—real or perceived—form the other side of the narrative.

1. Perceived Departure from Certain Traditional Norms

Some critics argue that he modernized the traditional structures “too much” for their liking, sometimes challenging long-held customs. His decisions on certain cultural practices, chieftaincy matters, and internal community disputes were sometimes viewed as unconventional or culturally radical.

2. Polarizing Political Stances

Awujale’s forthrightness extended to political matters, and this often placed him at the center of political debates. While many praised his candor, others felt he strained relationships or created divisions with certain positions he took publicly.

3. Personality-Driven Leadership Style

His strong personality—commanding, firm, sometimes blunt—did not sit well with everyone. Some saw it as decisive and visionary; others interpreted it as autocratic or dismissive. These mixed perceptions fueled many of the criticisms found across some quarters today.

4. Resistance from Those Who Misunderstood His Vision

A number of his critics are individuals who, despite struggling to manage their own private matters, felt emboldened to attack his person. For some, their dissatisfaction stemmed from personal grievances, political disagreements, or misunderstanding his forward-driven reforms.

However, even many of these critics—when honest—acknowledge the undeniable fact that he left Ijebuland far better, stronger, and more respected than he met it.

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A Balanced Reflection

The discussions following his passing reveal an important truth: the Awujale stool is a sacred institution, but the person who occupies it remains human—capable of brilliance and imperfection alike. Oba Sikiru Adetona was no exception. His reign was a blend of unmatched accomplishments, bold reforms, principled defiance, and human flaws.

Yet, the legacy he leaves behind is overwhelmingly one of strength, progress, dignity, and transformation.

History will remember him as the Awujale who redefined Ijebuland, raised its global profile, and set standards that future successors will find difficult to surpass.

Article by 

Femi Mebude 

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