Soldiers prevent traditionalists from disrupting Awujale’s Muslim funeral

On monday, soldiers prevented a group of traditionalists, believed to be members of the Osugbo cult, from participating in the Muslim funeral rites of the late Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba Sikiru Adetona.

Their presence at the ceremony caused some tension, but onlookers raised their voices in protest, prompting the soldiers to step in and escort the traditionalists away from the monarch’s residence.

Oba Adetona was laid to rest at his private residence in Ijebu Ode around 6 p.m. on Monday, in accordance with Islamic rites.

The incident comes against the backdrop of resistance by traditional groups to the Obas and Chiefs Law of 2021, which allows traditional rulers to be buried according to their religious beliefs. The traditionalists had objected to this law, insisting that royal fathers must be buried strictly by traditional customs. Oba Adetona was said to have played a major role in amending this law.

Despite attempts by the traditionalists to intervene, security forces ensured that the funeral proceeded without disruption. Oba Adetona, who reigned for 65 years, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

He was buried beside his father and mother in what appears to be a family mausoleum. The burial followed Islamic prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ijebu land, Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo.

Among those in attendance were former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly Oluwadaisi Elemide, former Governors Segun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, and Senator Adegbenga Kaka.

Also present were business leader Aliko Dangote, First Lady of Ogun State Bamidele Abiodun, and Senators Solomon Adeola and Salisu Shuaib.

Speaking at the event, Governor Abiodun described the late monarch as a wise and influential figure whose reign was defined by generosity, integrity, and peace. He noted that Oba Adetona was not only a respected leader in Ijebu land but a national figure whose early brilliance earned him a place on the Western Region executive council.

“He was principled, intellectual, and deeply patriotic. Kabiyesi will be remembered for his transparent leadership and unshakable dedication to the Nigerian state,” Abiodun said, adding that he would personally miss the monarch’s guidance and support.

Aliko Dangote praised the late Oba for his inclusive leadership and love for people regardless of background, describing his contributions to national development as outstanding.

Sunny Kuku, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu land and interim regent, spoke of Oba Adetona as a man of integrity and wisdom who made a lasting impact through education, poverty reduction, and cultural promotion. He highlighted the monarch’s transformation of the Ojude Oba festival into a globally recognized event and his efforts to uplift the less privileged.

Ladi Adebutu, the 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, commended the late king’s legacy of service and leadership, encouraging Nigerians to emulate his commitment to development and social progress.

Former Governor Gbenga Daniel described Oba Adetona as a fearless monarch who always spoke truth to power. He emphasized that one of the best ways to honour him would be to fulfill his long-standing dream of creating a new state out of the old Ijebu Province.

“Everyone knew Kabiyesi as someone who never shied away from saying the truth, even if it wasn’t popular. He stood firm through life’s many challenges and emerged with a reputation for honesty and strength,” Daniel said.

He called on the relevant authorities to take this moment as an opportunity to correct the historical oversight by establishing a new state, noting that Ijebu is the only one of the 24 provinces created in 1924 that has yet to be granted statehood.

Segun Osoba also paid tribute to the late monarch, praising his wisdom and commitment to the progress of Ijebu land and the nation. He noted that Oba Adetona’s sincere and principled leadership would be greatly missed.