The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has described the burial rites of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as a landmark victory for the Yoruba traditional institution and a step towards restoring its sanctity.

Akanbi said the process, which excluded age-long practices such as mutilation of the body, signalled a new era of dignity for departed Yoruba monarchs.

He commended the Awujale’s family and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for ensuring the burial was conducted with honour.

In a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, on Tuesday, Oluwo noted that Adetona had set a “path of honour” for future burials of Yoruba kings.

“The sanctity of Yoruba traditional institutions has been protected by the process adopted in burying the late Awujale of Ijebuland.

“Kings are servants to their subjects. They are honourable men who have sacrificed themselves in the interest of their people. Honour doesn’t die with the king. They should be honoured to the grave and beyond, not butchered like an animal after death.

“The noble burial rite for Awujale is a win for the Yoruba race, particularly myself. It signals freedom of Yoruba traditional rulers from physical and spiritual oppression after their death,” the statement read.

The monarch further stated that burial processes for traditional rulers should align with the wishes of the deceased or their families, and not be dictated by secret societies.

“The seizure of a king’s corpse by any secret group should be optional, depending on the wishes of his family,” he added.

Recalling his own reforms, the Oluwo said, “In Iwo, I have freed the throne from such bondage since my ascension 10 years ago. The Osugbos and Ogbonis have no relation with Yoruba monarchy. Every attempt to enslave the stool will be eternally resisted. Even after my death, I trust Iwo people will never condone absurdity.”

He lauded Governor Abiodun and Ogun State Attorney-General, Oluwasina Ogungbade, for their roles in preserving Awujale’s dignity, describing them as “true custodians of Yoruba heritage.”

“Any town willing to have its king butchered after death should appoint an herbalist or an Ogboni as its king,” Oluwo added.