The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Sen. Bola Tinubu, has described the passage of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, as a big loss for Oyo State and the entire Yoruba race.
Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State who doubles as the Chairman, South-West Governors Forum, said that he received the news of the transition of Oba Adetunji, with shock.
This came just as a former Governor of Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala described the late Olubadan’s death as another unpleasant experience in the state.
In separate condolence messages by their media aides, on Sunday, the personalities conveyed their condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, the people of the state and the royal family.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the late oba died in the early hours of Sunday at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State at age 93, and his remains were buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
The news agency also reports that the death of the late Olubadan came barely three weeks after the demise of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi.
Tinubu, who expressed sadness over the late king’s death however, said that he was grateful to God that the deceased passed on at a ripe age of 93.
The APC leader described the deceased as a sage and “a symbol of unruffled dignity,” adding that he was humble, humane, mature, calm and decent.
The former governor said that his exit robbed the state and Nigeria of his wise counsel, adding, “He never withheld his deep insights and rich perspectives from those who sought his guidance.
“This is a big loss to the state and Yoruba race and it truly rankles as the death is coming shortly after the passing of another top ranking traditional ruler in Yorubaland and precisely in Oyo State.
“Before he mounted the throne, Oba Adetunji had made his name as a successful businessman.
“He was a music and entertainment promoter who contributed a lot to uplift the careers of many top musicians in the land, thus contributing his quota to the growth of our country’s economy.
“On the throne, the late Olubadan worked assiduously for peace and stability of not only Ibadanland, Oyo State and Yorubaland, but also the entire country.”
Akeredolu was quoted as saying that in spite of Oba Adetunji’s old age, he was a valuable asset, not only to the people of Ibadan but also to the entire Yoruba race.
“Oba Saliu Adetunji was, undoubtedly, committed to the progress and peace of Ibadanland. He was a traditional ruler whose reign witnessed tremendous development in Ibadanland.
“Yet, his transition is another tragedy for us in Yoruba land. This loss, coming shortly after the demise of Soun of Ogbomoso, is a big blow dealt on our traditional stool in Yoruba land.
“As a people with culture and tradition, we believe that Oba Adetunji has gone to be with his forefathers. He has played his part and only his legacies will forever speak for him.
“He will be remembered for his firm stands. His principles and love for his people will be his enduring legacies. He was royalty with a difference,” the governor said.
Alao-Akala said it was sad that the death of Oba Adetunji came while still mourning the demise of Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi, the Soun of Ogbomoso, who joined his ancestors barely 22 days ago.
The former governor said that the departure of another foremost traditional ruler in Yorubaland was an unpleasant experience.
“Kabiyesi was a perfect example of a man of courage and resilience who stood by what he believed in, damning all consequences.
“Kabiyesi’s reign was a blessing to Ibadanland and Oyo State in general, and he will be sorely missed,’’ he was quoted as saying.
NAN reports that Oba Adetunji, the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland, ascended the throne of his forefathers on March 4, 2016.
