Olusegun Adeyemo
Reactions have continued to pour in following the passing of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, with heated debate now surrounding the circumstances of his burial. The 91-year-old monarch died on Sunday at his residence in Ijebu Ode’s GRA, and has since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
However, controversy erupted during the funeral when soldiers reportedly barred traditional worshippers, believed to be members of the Osugbo cult, from performing traditional rites. The development has sparked a wider public debate on the role of religion and tradition in royal burials.
In an interview with Journal Nigeria, legal consultant Bamofin Muyiwa Kusimo described the late monarch as a fulfilled king who prioritized the welfare of his people. Addressing the burial controversy, Kusimo emphasized the legal clarity on such matters.
“The law allows the family of the deceased king to determine the mode of burial,” he said. “Any attempt to carry out mutilation or actions contrary to the wishes of the family could attract criminal sanctions. There is no section in the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law that mandates a specific faith for ascending the throne.”
Residents across Ijebuland and Ogun State have voiced mixed feelings over the events that played out.
Mr. Taiwo Sanusi, a resident, mourned the passing of the Awujale, calling it “a great loss” to Ijebu people. On the matter of religion and tradition, he said:
“In my view, kingship should be neutral. If a person knows his religion conflicts with the cultural expectations of the throne, he should step aside. Our Yoruba kings traditionally practice all religions.”
Another resident, Mr. Olasunkanmi Umar, echoed this sentiment. “The Awujale was born and named according to Islamic rites, and now buried the same way. Being a king does not cancel his identity as a Muslim. Tradition is not the same as religion,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ijebu trader Mr. Oladapo Dada argued that individuals loyal to a specific religion should avoid taking traditional titles. He added that traditional institutions like Ifa must also act with integrity and transparency in the selection process for monarchs.
Mr. Yemisi Adeyemo of Ijebu offered a more historical context, stating that the late Awujale was wise in navigating both religion and tradition.
“He was installed by tradition, not Islam. But he influenced the passage of a law in Ogun State allowing monarchs to be buried according to their religious beliefs. The traditionalists never challenged the law then, so why should they now?”
Amidst the mourning, the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Mr. Dare Alebiosu, ordered the closure of three major markets Ita Ale, Ita Osu, and Oke Aje to honour the revered king. Alebiosu said the action is consistent with Ijebuland’s cultural tradition and meant to allow residents to mourn the monarch appropriately.
Oba Sikiru Adetona’s passing marks the end of an era. A respected and long-reigning monarch, he was known for his wisdom, advocacy for justice, and modernization of traditional leadership. His legacy, however, now intersects with a broader discussion on the evolving role of culture, law, and religion in Yoruba kingship.