The head of the Kaaro Oojiire Ọmọ Oodua Foundation (KOOOF), Asiwaju Olú Mayungbe, has criticized the funeral ceremonies of the late Awujale of Ìjẹ̀búland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, conducted according to Islamic traditions, stating that it did not align with the beliefs of the Ìjẹ̀bú people.
Asiwaju Mayungbe also highlighted that religion is unrelated to the spiritual and cultural identity of Ìjẹ̀bú-Ode.
In response to the contentious manner in which the late Awujale was buried, which many viewed as violating the customary traditions and rituals, Asiwaju Mayungbe, hailing from Idomowo in Ìjẹ̀bú-Ode, stated, "This action, performed without respect for the sacred Ìjẹ̀bú traditional belief system, constitutes a betrayal of our heritage and an insult to the spirits of our ancestors. It is a violation that should never happen again."
He mentioned: "Due to Islamic teachings, no one is allowed to enter a mosque while wearing shoes, regardless of their status. Similarly, according to Christian beliefs, no one can enter the church wearing a hat."
If Muslims do not adjust their rules, then why should our traditions be modified? An Ọba cannot experience the honor, benefits, advantages, and influence associated with royalty and, due to his inherent rights, adopt Christianity or Islam while remaining tied to the sacred throne.
He needs to step down from the throne in order to fully exercise his newly acquired basic rights and avoid subjecting his people to the disgrace of violating their principles.
The chairman of KOOOF stated: “Let it be clear to everyone — from the royal courts to the homes of the poor — that Ìjẹ̀búland must never again permit such a disgrace to tarnish the threads of our ancestral heritage.
The seat of Awujale — the most significant symbol of our cultural power — is not meant for religious compromise or political gain. It is a holy institution, based on Ìṣẹ̀ṣe, our native spirituality, traditions, and long-established customs.
We, the genuine children of Ijebuland — particularly those from Ijebu-Ode, the birthplace of our civilization — are united in resistance against any non-believer or Western-influenced candidate who attempts to claim the throne without steadfast loyalty to our traditional culture.
The throne belongs to no one who rejects our deities. It is not for those who avoid the traditions of our forebears. It is certainly not for those who, under the guise of foreign religions or Western ideas, seek to violate the sacred laws that have directed us for generations.
We have had enough. No more religious burial ceremonies that go against the traditions of Ìjẹ̀bú. No more kingship candidates whose values are shaped by Western ideas or colonial systems. No more politicians exploiting the throne to serve their own interests and weaken our heritage.
Let it be clearly understood: The teaching of Ìjẹ̀bú law is tradition. It is ancestral. It is spiritual. And it is everlasting. Any departure from this is a denial of our identity.
He urged the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, the Speaker, and members of the House of Assembly, along with all political leaders, to refrain from actions that go against the customs and heritage of the local people.
You were not selected to create laws that oppose our traditions. You were not appointed to change our culture. You need to transcend political matters and protect the spiritual and cultural foundation on which Ìjẹ̀búland was established.
Do not let Western legal principles or political interference taint the sacred process of choosing our next Awujale. The laws of our land were handed down by our ancestors. They were confirmed by the Osugbos, Ọbàlùfọ̀n, Ogun, Òrunmila, and the spirits of our forebears. This law cannot be changed through voting or courts. It is sacred.
He urged those who lack respect for Ìjẹ̀bú’s spiritual beliefs, culture, and traditions to avoid involvement in its leadership.
"Refrain from revealing yourself. Avoid political activities. Do not contaminate our holy institutions with outside ideas. This is not your purpose," he cautioned.
Asiwaju Mayungbe called on the Ìjẹ̀bú people to stand up, protect, and maintain the town's traditions and avoid being governed by someone who does not honor their forefathers.
He stated that the Awujale throne must continue to serve as a stronghold of Ìjẹ̀bú spiritual values, respect, and ongoing tradition.
"May the ancestors bless the land. May the oracles lead us. And may Ìjẹ̀búland not experience spiritual forgetfulness once more," Asiwaju Mayungbe prayed.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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