How soldiers resisted traditionalists from taking over Awujale’s burial

The burial of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona held on July 14, was not without attempt by traditionalists believed to be members of the Osugbo cult from taking over the process.

The Awujale died on July 13, and was buried in a Muslim funeral. But the presence of cult members at the funeral caused some apprehension.

The traditionalists wanted to bury the monarch according to traditional rites. The people, however, resisted them. The quick intervention of soldiers saved the day as they took control of the situation and escorted the traditionalists out of the royal father’s residence.

The remains of the monarch were later interred at his Ijebu Ode private residence around 6 pm on Monday, according to Islamic rites.

The traditionalists in the state had rejected the Oba and Chiefs Law of 2021, which stipulated that traditional rulers could be buried according to their religious disposition.

The traditionalists opposed the provision of the law, arguing that to preserve tradition, royal fathers must be buried according to the established tradition.

The Osugbo cult member came on Monday to see if it was possible to take over the burial of the late monarch, who was reportedly instrumental to the amendment of the law in the state.
However, soldiers barred them from disrupting the funeral.

Oba Adetona, who reigned for 65 years, died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91 years.
He was buried beside his late father in what appeared like a family mausoleum where his mum was also buried.

The interment was preceded by Islamic prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ijebu land, Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo.

Dignitaries at the burial were the immediate-past Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), Governor Dapo Abiodun, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Oluwadaisi Elemide, former governors, Segun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, and Senator Adegbenga Kaka.

Also present were the Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Senator Solomon Adeola representing Ogun West senatorial district and his Ogun Central counterpart, Senator Salisu Shuaib, among others.