By Huldah Shado
Tension erupted on Monday during the final burial rites of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, as traditionalists were prevented from performing customary rituals at the monarch’s private residence.
The incident reignited the ongoing debate over the Obas and Chiefs Law of 2021, which permits traditional rulers in Ogun State to be buried in line with their religious beliefs, a clause strongly opposed by traditionalists.
A large number of traditionalists had arrived at the residence to conduct the age-long rites but were denied entry.
Their presence stirred anxiety among mourners, prompting swift intervention by security personnel.
Soldiers later escorted the group out of the premises after nearby residents raised alarms and shouted at them.
Oba Adetona’s remains were ultimately buried around 6 p.m. at his Ijebu Ode private residence in accordance with Islamic rites.
A devout Muslim, the late monarch had reportedly expressed his wish for an Islamic burial.
The incident underscores the friction between evolving legal frameworks and age-old traditional practices, especially in the burial of prominent traditional rulers.
