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President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II.
In a statement by presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, Buhari extended his sincere condolences to the late Ooni’s family, his friends, associates and subjects, as well as the government and people of Osun State on the incident.
The President joined them in mourning the revered traditional ruler, “who will be long remembered and celebrated for his worthy service, over more than three decades, as the Chief Custodian of the traditions of the Yorubas and his invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria.
“President Buhari believes that Oba Sijuwade’s place in posterity has already been assured by his long and worthy service to his people and country as well as his notable contributions to the development of his community, state and country as a leading businessman, administrator and inspirational traditional ruler.
President Buhari also commended the late monarch’s invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, said that the Ooni’s departure was a great loss to the country.