Ijebu Group Condemns Alleged Breach of Royal Burial Rites for Awujale Sikiru Adetona

Ijebu Concerned Sons and Daughters Issue Stern Warning Over Deviation from Ancestral Protocols

Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State – A group identifying itself as “Concerned Sons and Daughters of Ijebuland” has released a powerful statement strongly condemning the alleged decision to bury the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, outside the sacred grounds of Igbo Odu, the traditional resting place for Ijebu monarchs. The group has labeled the act an “abomination” with potentially dire spiritual and communal consequences for Ijebuland.

In their statement, the group articulated profound spiritual fears, stating that the deviation from established ancestral protocols could lead to widespread misfortune and disrupt the spiritual continuity of the kingship. They emphasized that the Awujale was not merely a mortal but an “Orisa,” a symbol of divine authority deserving of a sacred transition in death, traditionally within the “sacred earth prepared by our forebearers.”

The concerned Ijebu indigenes highlighted that the practice of burying Obas in designated sacred locations like “Ile Odù,” “Igbo Orò,” “Ìgbó Olófin,” or “Igbo Oloja” is deeply rooted in Yoruba culture. This tradition, they explained, ensures spiritual continuity, preserves sacred knowledge, upholds cultural traditions involving secret societies and kingmakers, and protects royal secrets.

They warned that disregarding these traditions could lead to severe repercussions, including:

1.Spiritual Disruption: The king’s spirit may not rest, potentially becoming vengeful and causing unrest.

2.Cultural Desecration: The act is seen as an abomination, inviting curses, misfortune, or disunity.

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3.Loss of Legitimacy: Future kings could be perceived as illegitimate if the predecessor was not properly buried.

4.Ancestral Disconnect: It disrupts the vital spiritual succession and communion with ancestors.

The group concluded their impassioned plea by calling on the Council of Chiefs, royal lineage, custodians of Ijebu traditions, and all well-meaning sons and daughters of the land to:

1.Review and correct this perceived abomination, if spiritually possible.

2.Ensure this “unholy precedent” is never repeated or normalized.

3.Convene a reconciliation with the ancestors to appease offended spirits.

“May the land forgive us. May the ancestors find a voice again. And may Ijebuland not become a shadow of herself,” the statement concluded, underscoring the gravity of their concerns for the future of Ijebuland’s cultural and spiritual heritage.