Oyo lawmaker pays tribute to late Muhammadu Buhari, Awujale of Ijebuland

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Honourable Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi, who represents Afijio/Oyo East/Oyo West/Atiba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has paid heartfelt tributes to two late national figures—former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

In his message, Hon. Adeyemi described Buhari as a divinely appointed leader who succeeded where past political greats like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Mallam Aminu Kano, and Chief M.K.O. Abiola could not, by bringing progressive politics to national prominence through the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He credited Buhari’s alliance with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the political shift that allowed the APC to unseat the then-ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). According to Adeyemi, Buhari resisted anti-democratic influences and upheld democratic values even when pressured.

The lawmaker expressed confidence that President Tinubu would complete the vision and reforms started by Buhari, despite internal sabotage the late President faced from some appointees. He praised Buhari’s legacy of integrity, leadership, and democratic commitment.

“Jagaban will fulfill some of your wishes for Nigeria, truncated by some of your appointees who had hidden agendas of looting and sabotage,” Adeyemi said, referring to Tinubu by his popular alias.

Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, and will be buried in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday, July 15. The Federal Government has declared a public holiday and a week-long mourning period in his honour.

In a separate tribute, Adeyemi honoured the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, as a wise and dignified monarch whose intellect and grace left a lasting impact. He also reflected on the strong friendship between Oba Adetona and the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III.

Both monarchs, Adeyemi noted, ascended the throne in their youth—Oba Adetona at 25 and Oba Adeyemi at 31—and ruled for 65 and 52 years respectively. He hailed them as pioneers of literate, modern kingship and custodians of Yoruba heritage.