The Ogun State Government has declared its readiness to face any legal challenge from the International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) or any other group regarding the burial of the late Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

The famous monarch joined his ancestors on Sunday, 13th July, 2025, at 91, and was buried according to Islamic rites, a decision that has sparked significant controversy.

Mr. Sina Ogungbade (SAN), the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice for Ogun State, stated on Monday that while he views any such legal action as a ?sheer waste of time and resources,? the government is prepared to meet the plaintiffs in court.

He emphasized that the government acted within the law by allowing the monarch to be buried according to his religious beliefs.

The ICIR, led by its President, Dr. Fayemi Fakayode, and legal representative, Ifasola Opeodu, held a media briefing in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the weekend, where they condemned the burial as a ?breach of both tradition and the law.?

Fakayode specifically cited Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section II of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, which he claims mandates traditional rites over religious alternatives for the burial of kings.

The Ifa council vowed to correct what they called an anomaly and a departure from the laid-down traditional practice of the Yoruba tribe in giving the last respect and rites to the deceased king.

?Following the recent controversy surrounding the burial rites of Oba Awujale of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, we at the International Council For Ifa Religion-ICIR commend the Osugbo Confraternity of Ijebu-Ode for their exemplary restraint and patience in the face of adversity. That is infact a virtue that aligns with the noble teachings of ?r?nm?l?.

?This poignant moment reminds us that the gentleness of a lion is not a sign of weakness, but rather a testament to its wisdom and strength, as embodied in the proverb ?Y?y?? ?k?n; tojo k???.

?Regarding the burial rites of the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, it is essential to recall that the matter was settled while the late kabiesi was still alive, by a court of law and with the new bill passed in the state.

The council criticised the alleged sidelining of the Osugbo Confraternity, the traditional custodians of final rites, and accused the late monarch?s family, government officials, and security operatives of preventing the Osugbo from performing their duties.

Opeodu further described the burial process as ?a threat to democracy and an assault on the religious freedom of traditional religion practitioners.? The ICIR has vowed to pursue legal redress to safeguard Yoruba cultural traditions in future royal funerals.

In response, Ogungbade (SAN) stated, ?If they want to sue, I will describe it as a welcome development.? However, he offered ?free legal advice,? asserting that the ICIR?s ?position is steeped in ignorance of what the law is on the matter.

Their contemplated action will achieve nothing.? He questioned how the choice of the deceased Awujale or his family to be buried according to his faith could be construed as an assault on the religious freedom of indigenous adherents, calling their position ?laughable.? (Nigerian Tribune)

Update news