Happening Now! Tension In Osun State As Oro Cult Takes Over Ile-Ife

On Ooni's death - Palpable have enveloped the ancient city of Ile-Ife following the stay-at-home order imposed on residents of the community today in continuation of the burial rites of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade.

The monarch died last week in London. His death however will be formally acknowledged and announced on Wednesday.

The Obawara of Iwara-Ife, Oba Layi Adereti, on Monday said the official proclamation of the death would be done between 9 a.m. and 4p.m. on Wednesday.

Adereti, who is also the head of Ife Oro cult, said all residents of the ancient town whether male or female must remain indoors during the rites. He said after the Oro rites and proclamation, subsequent rites would follow. The traditional ruler appealed to residents to heed the restriction order from the palace.

“The proclamation of the demise of Ooni will be made public during the Oro festival, being the final rites on the demise of Ooni of Ife. “The residents of the ancient town are therefore urged to keep away from the streets between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4p.m. during which the Oro deity will be out.

“With the announcement, people are advised to stay indoors for the period when the Oro will be out,” Adereti said,”