Unconfirmed report have stated the burial of Ooni of Ife Oba Okunade Sijuade may have been stalled as the ‘Abobaku’ – a person elected to be buried alive with the king- have absconded.

It was learnt that ‘Abobaku’ is a person selected by the traditional chiefs of Ile Ife to live and die with the king. They are said to be treated well and showered with a lot of care and gifts while they are alive.

However, in a new twist, the ‘Abobaku’ ran away following the confirmation of the death of the Oba on several media platforms, despite denials by the Traditional Royal Council of Ife.

Awara of Iwara-Ife, Oba Layi Adereti, had yesterday disclosed that formal announcement of Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade’s death will be made on Wednesday (today).

According to Yoruba tradition, a king does not die alone. His burial rites include being buried with other people.

‘Abobaku’ lives his life for the king and he is buried alongside the king. In the authentic tradition, just as there is a lineage that become king, there is also always a family dedicated to the ancient belief of dying with the king.

Oba Adereti, who is also head of Oro Cult in Ile-Ife, had while making the statement on Tuesday warned residents of the ancient town, whether male or female, to remain indoor during the Oro rite, which will take place between 9am and 4pm, Wednesday.

“This is an official statement from the palace of Awara of Iwara-Ife, who is head of Oro deity that on Wednesday 12th August, 2015, there would be official proclamation of the demise of Ooni of Ife.

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

“With the announcement, people are advised to stay in-door for the period the Oro will be out.”

It is not yet clear if the Traditional Royal Council will go ahead with the announcement with the fresh development of the disappearance of the ‘Abobaku’