Tensions arose when traditionalists arrived at the royal residence in Ijebu Ode seeking to assert control over the burial.
IJEBU ODE — Soldiers on Monday barred traditionalists, believed to be Osugbo cult members, from disrupting the Muslim funeral of the late Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who died on Sunday at 91.
The tension arose when the traditionalists arrived at the royal residence in Ijebu Ode seeking to assert control over the burial. Eyewitnesses said soldiers swiftly took charge, escorting them out to ensure the Islamic rites proceeded without incident.
The monarch’s remains were interred around 6 pm beside his parents in a family mausoleum, following prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ijebu land, Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo.
The confrontation highlighted a longstanding dispute over the Obas and Chiefs Law of 2021, which permits rulers to be buried according to their religious beliefs—a law the Osugbo have opposed.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, billionaire Aliko Dangote, and other dignitaries attended the funeral.
Abiodun praised the late Awujale’s 65-year reign as a legacy of wisdom and peace: “He was a bundle of intellect, principled, forthright, a philosopher, and social engineer.”
Dangote described him as “a man of influence and a leader who prioritised service to the people.”
Sunny Kuku, who becomes regent, called him “a man of integrity who used his resources to fight poverty.”
Former Governor Gbenga Daniel urged that a new state be created from the old Ijebu Province to honour the late monarch’s vision, describing him as “fearless” and “forthright to a fault.”