The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has hailed the burial of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as a historic shift for the Yoruba traditional institution one that he believes marks the end of ritual practices surrounding monarchs’ deaths.

Oba Adetona, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 91, was buried on Monday according to Islamic rites, in line with his personal wishes. The ceremony was closely guarded by security forces who prevented traditionalists from imposing customary rituals.

In a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, Oba Akanbi commended the late monarch’s family, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the state’s Attorney General, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), for respecting the Awujale’s choice and resisting pressure from traditional cult groups.

“The burial of Oba Adetona is a victory for the Yoruba race,” Oba Akanbi said. “He was not butchered or mutilated like an animal. The honour shown to him in death should be the standard for all Yoruba kings.”

The Oluwo described the Islamic burial as a path of dignity and honour, calling it a “freedom from ritual slavery” and a move to protect the sanctity of the Yoruba monarchy.

He criticized communities that still support posthumous ritual practices, saying, “Any town willing that their king be butchered after death should appoint an herbalist or cultist as their ruler.”

Oba Akanbi also advocated that the burial method of any monarch should be based on the ruler’s documented wishes or those of his family not dictated by secret societies.

“Kings are servants of their people and should be honoured in life and in death. What happened with the Awujale is a blessing and a new foundation for future Yoruba monarchs,” he stated.

He further emphasized his long-standing opposition to idol worship and traditional cultism, declaring that the Iwo throne has been free from such practices since his ascension a decade ago.

“In Iwo, we have broken free from all forms of traditional bondage. Secret societies like the Osugbos and Ogbonis have no role in our monarchy,” he affirmed. “Even after my death, I trust that my people will not tolerate any return to such practices.”

Oba Akanbi concluded by urging Yoruba communities to adopt modern, respectful burial practices that uphold the dignity of their kings and reflect their personal values and beliefs.