Death is a necessity that every human must pay. No matter the age, when death comes, it leaves painful memories. With death, we are left with a heavy burden in our hearts with painful emotions.

It is with great shock that I received the news of the passage of our highly revered and distinguished Alaiyeluwa , Kabiyesi Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II. The Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.

The news was more shocking because it came a few hours after I had a telephone discussion with the Palace involving Alaiyeluwa himself in which Kabiyesi made his position, desire and wish known to me concerning the creation of Ijebu State. I take this  to be Alaiyeluwa’s last wish.

Alaiyeluwa Oba Sikiru Adetona lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation. He loved his people, and he was so loved by them. His character was exemplary; his philanthropy was remarkable.

Kabiyesi's loyalty and devotion to the course he sincerely believed in was exceptional. 

He was a ruler of note and an uncommon Kabiyesi who left a worthy legacy.

Kabiyesi personally directed and supervised the construction of the present Awujale's Palace. He was a  philanthropist of note. Kabiyesi's love for mankind coupled with his generosity, warmed him into the hearts of many in the fields of human endeavour. His love for education and its development could be attested to by his numerous contributions to various educational institutions.

Kabiyesi’s reign witnessed great and significant progress and development in Ijebuland.

He regularly engaged those in authority to ensure that Ijebuland has its fairness in the distribution of the commonwealth.

Oba Adetona was a staunch believer in the course of natural justice and fairness. He never hesitated to speak the truth to power.

I undertake to keep faith with our last discussion before his passing while pledging to rededicate myself to the course of the agitation for the *CREATION OF IJEBU STATE*.

Even as we mourn, we take solace in the fact that Alaiyeluwa lived a highly fulfilled life, which remains an example to us all. 

The best memorial we can give to the illustrious Kabiyesi, is to imbibe his ideals and values and all others that he exemplified during his reign.

No amount of words can describe the person, character, and personality of the late Awujale. 

He has left a vacuum that cannot be easily filled.

On behalf of my family and the people of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency, I convey my condolences  to the family members, Ijebu Traditional Council , Otunbas ,  Chiefs,  sons and daughters of Ijebuland. 

I pray that the Almighty will grant Alaiyeluwa eternal rest.

*E-Signed:*

Hon. (Barr.) 'Femi Ogunbanwo, OMO-IWA

Member, House of Representatives

Ijebu Central Federal Constituency