Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State — The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has announced that it may take the Ogun State Government and the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, to court. The group says that burying the respected king according to Islamic rites is a serious violation of Yoruba traditional customs and even breaks the law.
Who Was Oba Sikiru Adetona?
Oba Sikiru Adetona was a highly respected traditional ruler and the Awujale of Ijebuland. He passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91. He ruled for over 60 years and was seen as one of the most influential Yoruba monarchs of his time.
He was buried the same day following Islamic practices, which include praying for the dead and burying the body quickly, without traditional rites. This decision has now caused serious controversy.
Why the ICIR Is Angry
At a press conference on Saturday, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, President of ICIR, said that burying the king in an Islamic way broke a cultural and legal rule. He was joined by Barrister Ifasola Opeodu, the council’s legal adviser.
Dr. Fakayode explained that according to Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, specifically Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section II, traditional rulers like the Awujale must be buried using Yoruba traditional rites, not any foreign or religious methods.
“This is not just about how a king was buried. It’s about preserving the heritage that binds us as a people,” he said. “Any move against this is a threat to our identity as Yoruba people.”
The ICIR also praised the Osugbo Confraternity—a respected traditional group that is normally in charge of royal burials in Ijebu. According to Dr. Fakayode, the group showed maturity and patience after being blocked from performing the proper burial rites.
“Their peaceful conduct, even in the face of adversity, is a true representation of the teachings of Òrúnmìlà,” he added.
Barrister Opeodu also spoke strongly at the press conference. He said that the government and the Islamic clerics who led the burial did something unlawful.
“What happened at the Awujale’s burial was not only unlawful but also an affront to an established cultural system,” he said.
He added that the actions:
- Violate the rights of traditional religion followers
- Disrespect Yoruba culture
- Could undermine democracy by ignoring the law
Opeodu specifically mentioned the Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode and other Muslim leaders who participated in the burial. He accused them of breaking the law and encouraging cultural lawlessness.
The ICIR says it will now take the matter to court. They hope that legal action will:
- Protect Yoruba culture and burial customs
- Prevent similar incidents in the future
- Remind the government and the public that traditional religion must be respected just like any other
The ICIR says this is a fight to protect Yoruba tradition, not to attack any religion. But they warn that if issues like this are ignored, Nigeria may lose its cultural identity and legal order.
As this case develops, many will be watching to see how the Ogun State Government and the legal system respond.
Stay informed. Culture, law, and respect for traditions matter—now and for future generations.
