The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade I has expressed sadness over the transition of Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II.

The Olubadan, in a statement issued on Friday on his behalf by his Personal Assistant, Chief Isiaka Akinpelu, described Oba Sijuwade’s death as a huge loss to the people of Ile-Ife, Yorubaland and the nation in general.

 According to Oba Odugade: “The 35-year reign of Oba Sijuwade was highly remarkable for its contribution to the peace, progress and development of Yorubaland in particular and the country as a whole.
“The late Ooni’s wise counsel and timely personal interventions, which contributed in no small measure towards resolving national issues and questions at critical periods in the nation’s history would be sorely missed,” he said.
He however, prayed for the repose of the soul of the late monarch and the fortitude by the people of Ile-Ife, Yorubaland and the nation at large to bear the irreparable loss.