13th August, 2015
The passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, the Ooni of Ife, has been described as an exit of an icon by the Awolowo Foundation.
A statement issued by the Dr Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, expressed shock over the revered monarch’s passing after 35 years on the throne.
In the statement on behalf of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Dosumu said: “We received with shock and utter dismay, news of the sudden departure from this earthly realm of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, the Ooni of Ife, after 35 glorious years on the throne of his ancestors.
“Kabiyesi ascended the throne better prepared than most for the uniquely critical leadership role of the Ooni in Yoruba land. He had a formidable geo-political and social network, nationally and internationally. He possessed considerable material wealth. And he possessed ample personal attributes of kindness, generosity and tolerance, amongst many others, to make his reign the outstanding success that it turned out to be.
“As Ooni of Ife, Kabiyesi exemplified stature and gravitas, yet with admirable flair.”
Dosumu further stated that “As a close friend of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his relationship with the family not only survived Papa’s transition, he remained fiercely loyal to Mama and the entire family, as well as to Papa’s legacy, to the very end.
“In this regard, as Honorary Grand Patron of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation since inception in 1992, Kabiyesi’s support could always be counted upon, regardless of situation or circumstance. His encouragement kept us going when our spirits flagged. And his majestic presence lent tremendous dignity to many of the Foundation’s outings. He will be sorely missed.
“We commiserate with the members of Kabiyesi’s immediate family, the entire Yoruba race at home and in the diaspora, and indeed, our nation Nigeria. We take solace in the fact that he lived well and has left a precious heritage of which we can be forever proud.
“May his great and kind soul rest in perfect peace.”