In an exclusive interview, Prince Adedire Adetona, first son of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, offers a rare glimpse into royal life, sharing personal triumphs, cultural insights, and his vision for preserving Yoruba traditions in modern Nigeria.
A Prince’s Journey: From Millfield to Maiduguri
Now in his sixties, Prince Adetona reflects on an upbringing that blended privilege with profound life lessons:
– Attended England’s prestigious Millfield School (“the world’s most expensive school in the 70s/80s”)
– Survived eight years of hardship in Lagos after academic struggles
– Earned his degree in Maiduguri’s scorching heat (“I adjusted and dealt with the issues”)
“Success isn’t riches or houses—it’s the ability to rise when you fall,” he shares, echoing his friend Asiwaju Babasola Adebajo’s wisdom.
Lessons from a Legendary Father
The Awujale, Africa’s longest-reigning monarch at 91, has deeply influenced his heir:
✔ *Character First:* “Whether negative or positive, you must have clear character”
✔ *Discreet Leadership:* “He doesn’t crave the stage but operates quietly”
✔ *Resilience:* Recounts the emotional day townspeople walked 50km with the Awujale to prove his recovery from illness
Ojude Oba: More Than a Festival
As this year’s celebration approaches (with heightened excitement about potential Ijebu Statehood), Prince Adetona explains why the event captivates millions:
– Unites Ijebu’s three pillars: royalty, Regberegbe age groups, and Balogun families
– Evolving commercial opportunities attracting global attention
– “People are now copying our template nationwide”
Royal Concerns: Tradition in Modern Nigeria
The prince speaks candidly about pressing issues:
⚠ Yoruba Language Preservation: “I preserve our culture because that stool made me who I am” (His home displays ancestral portraits as daily reminders)
⚠ Traditional Institution Challenges: Blames “commercialised enthronement processes” for some rulers’ misconduct
⚠ Constitutional Roles: Advocates formal recognition—but only for first-class Obas
A Message to Ijebu Nation
“Without my people, we wouldn’t be here. Wherever I go, the seat they give me is because I’m a prince.” He prays for continued harmony between the Awujale and his subjects.
Final Thought: “A king is chosen by God—but kingmakers must act with fear of God and fairness to their people.”
Inspired by African royalty? Follow our lifestyle series “Modern Monarchs” for more profiles of tradition-meets-contemporary leadership.
