Showunmi Pays Scripted Homage to Awujale in Absential

Kabiyesi,

Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayọde Adetọna, GCON, Ọgbagba Agbotẹ́wọlé II, Awùjalẹ̀ and Paramount Ruler of Ìjẹ̀bú Land, a full year has passed since you took the journey to join our ancestors.

Yet, it still feels as though you are here.

Perhaps it is because your presence was larger than the throne you occupied. Perhaps it is because your voice, your courage, your wisdom, and your uncommon sense of duty became woven into the very fabric of Ìjẹ̀búland. Or perhaps it is because some men never truly leave; they simply transition into memory and ancestral authority.

Kabiyesi, you were a king like no other. Royalty matched responsibility in your person. You understood that a crown was not merely an ornament of privilege but a burden of service. Through decades of leadership, you elevated the throne of the Awujale into one of the most respected traditional institutions in Nigeria and indeed Africa.

Jigbini bi ate ileke.

Alagemo merindinlogun.

As we witnessed this year’s Agemo Festival, many of us could not help but think of you. The festival was peaceful, colourful, regal, and dignified. The Agemo danced through Ìjẹ̀bú-Ode with all the splendour that has defined our culture for centuries. There was joy in the land, reverence in the air, and pride in the hearts of our people.

It was a reminder that the institutions you nurtured remain strong.

It was a reminder that culture survives when leaders deliberately preserve it.

It was a reminder that your labour was not in vain.

Kabiyesi, some of your greatest dreams are gradually becoming reality.

For years, you advocated the economic possibilities of Ogun Waterside and the exploration of the resources beneath its soil and waters. Today, the effort has gained unprecedented momentum. Your beloved son, Governor Dapo Abiodun, has committed significant energy and political capital to the realization of that vision. Your paddy, Asiwaju of the Universe, as you fondly called President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has provided the necessary support and approvals to move the process forward.

The deep seaport project that many feared would remain a dream has returned to the front burner.

Our airport is no longer an aspiration; it is operational and receiving international flights.

The economic future of Ogun State appears brighter than ever.

Kabiyesi, these are developments that would have brought a smile to your face.

I bear full testimony that Governor Dapo Abiodun has not disappointed. Leadership is never easy, and governance is often judged harshly by those who do not carry its burdens. Yet it is evident that he has remained focused on the growth and development of Ogun State.

Oti ru re.

Bareni Olorun a je ko so re.

Your beloved Ìjẹ̀bú nation is progressing.

Ogun State continues its journey of development and transformation.

The aspirations of our people remain alive.

There is, however, one matter that weighs on the minds of many. A year has passed, and there is still no new Awujale on the throne. Such matters are delicate and deeply rooted in tradition. They demand patience, wisdom, consultation, and fidelity to custom. I trust that your sons and daughters, the kingmakers, the traditional authorities, and all those entrusted with the sacred responsibility of succession will resolve it in a manner befitting the dignity of the Awujale stool.

No throne as revered as yours should become a source of division.

No legacy as rich as yours should be diminished by discord.

I believe that the wisdom of our ancestors will prevail.

Kabiyesi, as Ogun State gradually approaches another cycle of political transition, your voice is still heard in conversations about leadership. The message you once gave to Pastor Tunde Bakare continues to echo in the minds of many. It reminds us that leadership is ultimately about service, sacrifice, courage, and character.

Your life remains a lesson.

Your reign remains a benchmark.

Your memory remains a source of inspiration.

May your soul continue to dwell among our ancestors.

May your authority continue to guide the destiny of Ìjẹ̀búland.

May your blessings continue to rest upon your people.

May the Almighty God and the spirits of our forebears grant you eternal peace.

Kabiyesi o.

Sun re o, Baba Adetoun.

Sun re o, Ọgbagba Agbotẹ́wọlé.

Sun re o, Awujale of Ìjẹ̀búland.

Your people remember.

Your people honour.

Your people remain grateful.

Otunba Segun Showunmi 

The Alternative.