A mild drama ensued at the private residence of the late Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona as traditionalists invaded the burial site just before religious rite was performed
Recall that a controversial burial rites law was signed by the Ogun state government, which gives powers for monarchs to be buried according to their religious beliefs, a breakaway from the norms, culture and traditions once practiced
Specifically, Section 55 of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021 provides a framework for the preservation and regulation of traditional burial rites for traditional rulers.
While subsection (ii) of the section acknowledges the right of a traditional ruler to be buried in accordance with customary practices, subsections (iii) to (v) establish procedural safeguards for the application of such customs.
The traditionalists who came in their numbers were however prevented by security operatives from the Nigeria Army, who marched them to the gate.
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Recently, in a lecture delivered by Justice P.O. Akinside of the Customary Court of Appeal, Ogun State, noted that traditional rulers are bound to submit to the customs and burial rites of the traditional institution.
The Ogun government however noted that Justice Akinside’s submission was his personal opinion and had nothing to do with any judicial pronouncement.
The controversy surrounding the burial rites for traditional rulers in Ogun government will however lingers.
