Awujale: Ogun Government Gears Up for Legal Showdown with Ifa Council
Awujale: Ogun Government Gears Up for Legal Showdown with Ifa Council
The Ogun State Government on Monday stated that it remains unfazed by any threats of legal action from individuals or groups opposing the burial of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, which was carried out in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Sina Ogungbade (SAN), made this known in response to the International Council for Ifa Religion’s warning of possible legal proceedings against the government and the late monarch’s family over the alleged disregard for traditional burial customs.
Ogungbade emphasized that while it is within the rights of individuals to challenge the government through the judicial system, pursuing a case against the Awujale’s religiously conducted burial would amount to a needless waste of time and resources.
Oba Adetona passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, and was buried on Monday, July 14, 2025, in line with Islamic traditions.
The burial has generated controversies, with the ICIR and traditionalists condemning the government for going against traditions.
The ICIR President, Dr Fayemi Fakayode, and the Council’s legal representative, Ifasola Opeodu, speaking during a media briefing in Ibadan, Oyo State, at the weekend, reportedly described the burial as a breach of both tradition and the law.
Fakayode said Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section II of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law mandates the use of traditional rites over religious alternatives in the burial of kings.
He condemned the exclusion of the Osugbo Confraternity—traditional custodians of final rites—and commended their composure in the face of the situation.
“This goes beyond the burial of a single monarch; it strikes at the heart of Yoruba heritage. Disregarding our customs is a direct attack on the cultural identity that defines us as a people,” Fakayode stated.
The council accused the late king’s family, government officials, and security personnel of obstructing the Osugbo from fulfilling their traditional responsibilities during the burial.
Opeodu described the process as not only a threat to democracy but also a violation of the religious rights of traditional worshippers.
“The decision to disregard traditional burial customs is an infringement on the religious freedoms of indigenous faith practitioners,” the council declared.
The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) pledged to seek legal redress and reaffirmed its dedication to protecting Yoruba cultural traditions, especially in the conduct of future royal funerals.
Responding to the legal threat, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Sina Ogungbade (SAN), remarked, “If they choose to sue, I would consider it a welcome development.”
