The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has signed into law the controversial chieftaincy bill abolishing mandatory traditional rituals during the installation and burial of Obas in the state.
With the signing of this bill, traditional rulers in Ogun State can now be installed without undergoing the customary seclusion rites known as Ipebi, often described as an ‘orientation camp’ for new Obas. The new law also grants deceased Obas the right to be buried according to their personal religious beliefs, instead of being interred strictly by traditionalists.
This legislative development has generated reactions from various quarters, with many describing it as a significant reform of cultural practices surrounding traditional rulership in the state.
Key Highlights of the New Law:
- No mandatory seclusion (Ipebi) for the installation of Obas
- Freedom of burial rites in accordance with the Oba’s religion rather than traditional customs
However, social commentators and youth groups have raised further questions regarding the broader implications of this reform:
- Whether the law implies that no Oba can compel anyone to prostrate before them, as respect should now be voluntary rather than enforced by custom.
- If citizens can now greet Obas with a handshake without fear of disrespect accusations, aligning with modern republican norms.
- Whether Obas, as traditional leaders appointed under state law, can continue to refer to their domains as “kingdoms”, considering constitutional realities.
- The extent to which Obas can still claim ownership over community lands, royalties, and ancestral territories under state authority.
As implementation unfolds, it remains to be seen how traditional institutions will adapt to this landmark legal and cultural shift in Ogun State.
