Oba Okunade Sijuwade: passes on

President Muhammadu Buhari has sent his condolences to the family, friends and associates of Oba Okunade Sijuwade, whose death was officially announced today in Osogbo, State of Osun, about two weeks after he passed away.

Buhari said he received the news with sadness.

President Buhari also extended condolences to the people of Ife, as well as the government and people of the State 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 Yoruba and his invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria,” said Buhari in a statement issued by Femi Adesina, his media and publicity adviser.

”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 to take his place on the ancient throne of Ile Ife,” the statement added.