A list of five longest reigning monarchs in Nigeria history has been recorded in this article
The Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, died on Sunday July 13, 2025.
The respected monarch died at 91, just hours after the announcement of the death of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Mourning his passage, a prince of Ijebu, Prince Adedoyin Alatishe wrote on X, “Baami Ogbagba agbatewole. Erin wo. Omo anikilaya saagbu.”
Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers and widely revered for his contributions to the sociopolitical development of Ijebuland and Ogun State at large.
Here are five longest reigning monarchs in Nigeria history:
1. Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona (Awujale of Ijebu land)
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was the revered Awujale of the Ijebu Kingdom in Nigeria, installed as king on April 2, 1960. Born on May 10, 1934, he reigned for over 65 years, becoming one of Nigeria’s longest-serving monarchs. He belonged to the Anikinaiya royal house and passed away on July 13, 2025.
2. Oba Okunade Sijuwade
Oba Okunade Sijuwade was a highly respected king in Nigeria, known as the 50th Ooni of Ife, who ruled from 1980 to 2015. He ascended the throne in 1980 and ruled for 35 years, until his death in 2015. He played a significant role in promoting Yoruba culture, unity, and national development, leveraging his business expertise and influential position to drive positive change. As a traditional leader, he worked to preserve Yoruba heritage and facilitated dialogue to resolve disputes, leaving a lasting impact on Nigerian society.
3. Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III
Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III reigned as the Alaafin of Oyo for 52 years, from November 18, 1970, until his passing on April 22, 2022. He was 83 years old at the time of his death and holds the record for the longest-reigning monarch in Oyo history.
4. Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III
Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III served as the Soun of Ogbomoso for 48 years, from October 24, 1973, until his passing on December 12, 2021. He holds the record for the longest-serving Soun in Ogbomoso’s history, leaving a lasting legacy of development and progress in the ancient city.
5. Oba Erediauwa
Oba Erediauwa was the 38th Oba of Benin, reigning from March 23, 1979, to April 29, 2016. He served for 37 years. Born on June 22, 1923, in Benin City, Nigeria, he was the son of Oba Akenzua II and succeeded his father to the throne. Before his coronation, he was known as Prince Solomon Aiseokhuoba Igbinoghodua Akenzua.
Oba Erediauwa passed away on April 29, 2016, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, peace, and cultural preservation in the Benin Kingdom.
The Nation
