“Awujale Ate with Us, But Denied Us at Death!” — Chief Priest Laments Burial Snub

The Chief Priest of the Obinrin Ojowu deity and Olowa Iberu of Ijebuland, Chief Rasaki Osimodi, has expressed deep dissatisfaction over the burial of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, according to Islamic rites, despite the monarch’s decades-long involvement in traditional cultural activities.

In a recent conversation monitored by iReporter Online, Chief Osimodi revealed that although the late Awujale distanced himself from certain traditional practices in recent years, he had maintained notable associations with Ijebu traditionalists throughout much of his reign. According to him, Oba Adetona had actively participated in revered festivals such as Agemo, Oro, and Obinrin Ojowu in earlier years and continued to provide support until 2019 and 2023, when that support ceased.

“While it is true he became less present, especially in the past five years, he dined with us, shared our customs, and upheld several rituals,” the Chief Priest said. “So, it was painful to see him buried strictly according to Islamic rites without allowing the traditional institutions to perform their rightful duties.”

The Chief Priest confirmed that a delegation of traditionalists, including members of the Osugbo cult, arrived at the Awujale’s residence on the day of the burial but were turned away. Eyewitness accounts disclosed to iReporter Online suggest that it was not security personnel but members of the late monarch’s family and Muslim community leaders who asked the traditionalists to leave.

According to Chief Osimodi, the Lisa of Ijebu, who holds traditional authority in the absence of the Awujale, had advised the traditionalists not to confront anyone and to conduct themselves peacefully, which they did. Reports indicate that the Awujale had given prior instructions that he be buried in accordance with Islamic tradition, a directive believed to have been endorsed by government authorities.

Commenting on the implications of foregoing traditional burial rites, Chief Osimodi noted that there would inevitably be spiritual consequences, even if delayed. However, he assured that traditional custodians had commenced remedial rites to prevent any negative effects on the land and its people. These included a three-month closure of major markets in Ijebuland, including those in Oke Aje, Ita Osu, Oyingbo, and Itale, to observe the traditional mourning period.

On the matter of succession, the Chief Priest emphasized the importance of preserving cultural protocol in selecting and installing the next Awujale. He called on the government to refrain from interfering in the traditional process, urging that the Lisa be allowed to conduct the rites as dictated by long-standing customs.

He further alleged that the military presence seen in Ijebu Ode during the burial was orchestrated by government officials to enforce the late monarch’s Islamic burial wishes. “Without the government’s involvement, the Osugbo would have taken charge, as is our tradition,” he said.

Despite the tension, Chief Osimodi downplayed any fears of religious conflict. “There is peace. If anything were to happen, it would have been on the day of the burial. Thankfully, everything went smoothly.”

In conclusion, he appealed to national and state authorities, including President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun, to address the worsening economic situation in the country. He specifically urged for a review of the fuel subsidy removal policy and increased efforts toward food production, citing growing hardship among Nigerians.

The official mourning period for the late monarch continues, after which the selection of a new Awujale is expected to commence.