President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the news of the transition of one of Nigeria’s foremost traditional rulers, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, President Buhari extended his sincere condolences to the late Ooni’s family, his friends, associates and subjects, as well as the government and people of Osun on the departure of the first class monarch.
“The President joins them 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 believed that Oba Sijuwade’s place in posterity had already been assured by his long and worthy service to his people and country.
He said the late Ooni of Ife would also be remembered by 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 urged the Ooni’s family, friends, associates and subjects to be consoled by the knowledge that he lived a very fulfilled life, and had left worthy legacies for his successors to build upon.
The president, therefore, prayed that “God Almighty will comfort all those who mourn Oba Sijuwade and bring forth a worthy successor to take his place on the ancient throne of Ile-Ife’’
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