The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has announced its intention to sue the Ogun State Government and the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, for what it calls a violation of traditional burial laws.
Oba Adetona, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, was laid to rest according to Islamic customs—a move the council strongly condemned, claiming it contravenes Yoruba cultural traditions.
At a press briefing held on Saturday, ICIR President Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, joined by the council’s legal adviser, Barrister Ifasola Opeodu, accused both the state authorities and the monarch’s family of ignoring legal and cultural obligations that govern the burial of a traditional ruler.
Dr. Fakayode cited a standing court judgment which, according to him, requires that traditional rulers be buried in line with Yoruba customs, not religious practices such as Islam or Christianity.
He commended the Osugbo Confraternity—responsible for performing traditional rites—for their peaceful conduct despite being reportedly barred from fulfilling their role.“The Ogun State Government’s decision to enforce Islamic rites in the burial of Oba Adetona clearly violates Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section II of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law,” Fakayode stated.
“This is more than just a burial dispute—it’s about safeguarding our cultural identity. Any deviation from our tradition threatens the very fabric of who we are.”He also condemned the actions of security personnel and government officials, accusing them of disrespecting traditional practitioners during the funeral.
Echoing his remarks, Barrister Opeodu described the burial as both a cultural and legal infraction. “What occurred at the Awujale’s burial infringes upon the rights of traditional religious adherents and poses a serious threat to democratic values,” he said.
Opeodu further criticized the involvement of Islamic clerics—especially the Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode—accusing them of encouraging disregard for state laws.He assured that the council would take legal measures to ensure all parties involved are held accountable and to prevent future violations of Yoruba traditions.—Let me know if you’d like a shorter version o
