By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Simawa, Ogun State -November 8, 2026
Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the Senatorial Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for Oyo Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Fadesewa of Simawa Kingdom in Ogun State, His Royal Highness, Oba (Dr.) Olugbenga Gbadebo Sonuga, Ogbodo I.
Ajadi, in a condolence message, extended his heartfelt sympathies to the Simawa Royal Family, the Simawa Traditional Council, the people of Simawa Kingdom and all those affected by the monarch’s death.
The late traditional ruler, who reportedly died at the age of 81 after a brief illness, was announced dead by the royal family through Olootu Omooba Olumuyiwa Sonuga, who made the announcement on behalf of the family.
Describing the monarch’s death as a significant loss to the traditional institution and the Simawa community, Ajadi said the late Oba Sonuga would be remembered for his leadership, dedication to his people and contributions to the development of his kingdom.
Ajadi said, “I received the news of the passing of His Royal Highness, Oba (Dr.) Olugbenga Gbadebo Sonuga, with profound sadness. His departure is a painful loss, not only to the Simawa Royal Family and the people of Simawa Kingdom but also to the traditional institution and everyone who valued his leadership and service.
“Oba Sonuga was a respected traditional ruler whose reign represented an important chapter in the history and development of Simawa. His contributions to the growth of his community and the preservation of its cultural heritage will remain part of his enduring legacy.
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“At this difficult moment, I extend my sincere condolences to the royal family, the traditional council, the chiefs, elders and the entire people of Simawa. I pray that Almighty God grants the family the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
Oba Sonuga ascended the throne in 2006 and presided over the kingdom for approximately two decades. His reign witnessed significant changes in Simawa, a community in Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State, which developed from a predominantly agrarian settlement into an increasingly urbanised community.
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He noted that traditional institutions remain important partners in community development and nation-building, particularly through their roles in conflict resolution, cultural preservation and maintaining harmony among their people.
He urged the people of Simawa to remain united during the mourning period and sustain the values of peace, cooperation and communal development associated with the late monarch’s reign.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the APM senatorial candidate prayed for the peaceful repose of the monarch’s soul and divine comfort for the bereaved royal family and the entire Simawa Kingdom.
