On February 1, 2003, history was made in the ancient city of Ile-Ife when Oba Okunade Sijuwade, CFR, the 50th Ooni of Ife, hosted two of Nigeria’s leading political figures — Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is now the President of Nigeria, and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who was then Nigeria’s Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The visit was both political and cultural, underscoring the Ooni’s influence as a unifying figure whose palace often served as a meeting point for leaders across party lines. At the time, the 2003 general elections were approaching, and the presence of both Tinubu and Atiku in the Ooni’s palace highlighted the respect traditional rulers commanded in Nigeria’s political landscape.
The Ooni’s Legacy
Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, born on January 1, 1930, ascended the throne in 1980 as the fiftieth Ooni of Ife, succeeding Oba Adesoji Aderemi. During his 35-year reign, he worked tirelessly to modernise Ile-Ife while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions as the spiritual heart of the Yoruba people.
Before becoming king, Sijuwade was a successful businessman and founder of the Sijuwade Group, with interests in construction, property, and publishing. His refined sense of diplomacy and his influence among Yoruba monarchs earned him a central place in Nigeria’s sociopolitical affairs.
A Monarch of National Influence
As Ooni, Sijuwade was known for fostering unity among Yoruba leaders and maintaining strong ties with political elites across Nigeria. His relationship with leaders like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, President Olusegun Obasanjo, and later Asiwaju Bola Tinubu positioned him as an elder statesman whose palace was open to dialogue and reconciliation.
His hosting of Tinubu and Atiku in 2003 symbolised his nonpartisan role as a custodian of tradition and peace. The meeting reportedly included discussions about national unity and the role of Yoruba leadership in Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Later Years and Passing
Oba Okunade Sijuwade continued to reign until his passing on July 28, 2015, in London, at the age of 85. He was succeeded by Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the current Ooni of Ife.
Throughout his reign, Oba Sijuwade remained a symbol of royalty, sophistication, and cultural preservation. His reign is remembered for blending modern leadership with traditional authority — a balance that strengthened the global recognition of Yoruba heritage.
Photo Credit: Archives, 2003
Source: The Guardian Nigeria, The Nation Archives, Ooni Palace Records
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