Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari has mourned Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, one of Nigeria’s foremost traditional rulers.

President Buhari in a statement by Femi Adesina, his media aide, commiserated with the late Ooni’s family, his friends, associates and subjects, as well as the administration and people of Osun state on the departure of the eminent monarch.

The statement reads in part: “The President joins them (his family, friends and associates) in mourning the revered traditional ruler who will be long remembered and celebrated for his worthy service, over more than three decades, as the Chief Custodian of the traditions of the Yorubas and his invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria.

“President Buhari believes that Oba Sijuwade’s place in posterity has already been assured by his long and worthy service to his people and country as well as his notable contributions to the development of his community, state and country as a leading businessman, administrator and inspirational traditional ruler.

“As they mourn his passing, President Buhari urges the Ooni’s family, friends, associates and subjects to be consoled by the knowledge that he lived a very fulfilled life, and has left worthy legacies for his successors to build upon.

“He prays that God Almighty will comfort all who mourn Oba Sijuwade and bring forth a worthy successor to take his place on the ancient throne of Ile-Ife.”


It would be recalled that in 1984, when General Buhari was military head of state, he barred a trip to Israel of the Ooni and his close friend, Ado Bayero, the emir of Kano who died in 2014. This was believed a disgrace of the highest order.

During the last presidential poll Ooni of Ife supported Buhari’s rival ex-president Goodluck Jonathan.

Ooni of Ife has died in London on July 28, Tuesday, but according to Yoruba traditions his death was only officially announced two weeks later.