The Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has announced that the burial rites for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana, will begin on February 6, while his remains would be interred on February 12, in Ibadan, the state capital.
The governor, who disclosed this during a condolence visit to the Monatan, Ibadan, residence of the deceased, on Friday, said President Muhammad Buhari will be expected to lead other dignitaries to the city for the burial ceremonies.
He said that the decision was taken by a committee comprising members of the deceased monarch’s family, Olubadan-in-council and the state government to ensure that Oba Odulana was given a stately final farewell.
Ajimobi said that a burial committee would be unveiled in due course, while details of the activities would also be made public when all activities have been agreed upon.
“We have decided to make it a stately burial and we will set up a committee made up of members of the family, of which I am one; the Olubadan-in-council and government officials.
“We have agreed that we will commence all activities from February 6 and complete the burial ceremony on the February 12 with the interment. The committee will decide the modus operandi of the ceremonies
“Our own dear President Muhammadu Buhari and my colleague governors will top list of dignitaries we will be inviting to give late Oba Odugade a befitting burial. I’m using this medium to solicit the support of Ibadan people at home and in the Diaspora to join hands with us to make the ceremonies grand.”
The governor said that the death of the foremost monarch, who he described as his father, was a personal loss to him, adding that the monarch intervened on three different occasions to pave the way for him to become governor.
He advised future Olubadans to emulate the good characters and humble way of life of the late Oba Odugade Odulana for the continued development, peace and progress of Ibadanland.
Speaking on behalf of the family and Olubadan-in-council, the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Lekan Balogun commended the understanding of the governor and his commitment towards giving the late Olubadan a magnificent burial.
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