International Council For Ifa Religion Threatens Legal Action Over Awujale’s Burial Rites Violation
By Damilare Joshua
The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has announced plans to sue the Ogun State Government and the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, for allegedly violating traditional burial rites mandated for traditional rulers in the state.
This assertion was made in a statement jointly signed by ICIR President Fayemi Fakayode, Public Relations Officer Ayanladun Fajemisin, and Legal Representative Ifasola Opeodu. The council’s decision comes after Oba Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91 on July 13, 2025, was buried in accordance with Islamic rites, which the ICIR views as a departure from customary practices.
Traditional Rites in Dispute
The ICIR expressed its resolve to address this “anomaly,” asserting that the burial rites did not align with Yoruba traditions as upheld in a previous court ruling during the late monarch’s lifetime. The council emphasized that such rulings dictated that traditional rulers should be given honors in accordance with Yoruba customs, rather than the practices of foreign religions.
In the statement, the ICIR commended the Osugbo Confraternity of Ijebu-Ode for their restraint amidst the controversy, stating that their conduct embodies the values taught by Òrúnmìlà. However, the council condemned the actions of Islamic clerics, led by the Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode, claiming they violated both traditional law and the secular law of Ogun State.
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Cultural Integrity at Stake
The statement read, “This issue transcends a mere burial rite; it represents a challenge to the very fabric of our customs and traditions. The actions taken at the event are part of a broader agenda to undermine our cultural practices and to dilute our heritage.”
The ICIR further noted that the burial arrangements were inconsistent with Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section ii of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, asserting that any deviation from this law disrespects the long-standing traditions that define the Yoruba identity.
The council urged the people of Ijebu-Ode and the entire Yoruba race to recognize the sacredness of the institution of Obaship, stressing the need for respect for their cultural heritage. They condemned the disrespect shown toward the Osugbo Confraternity by officials during the burial.
“Moving forward,” the ICIR declared, “we will take the necessary legal actions to ensure that future violations of our customs and traditions do not happen again.”
