Ondo sets up panel to resolve Idogun monarch’s burial crisis

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Government has constituted an eight-man reconciliation committee to resolve the lingering dispute surrounding the burial of the late traditional ruler of Idogun, Oba Moses Ekundayo Bakare.

The decision was formally announced on Tuesday by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, during a strategic meeting with royal family members, community leaders, and government officials at his office in Akure.

The underlying crisis erupted shortly after the monarch passed away at an Akure hospital on 15 October 2026 following a brief illness.

Tensions escalated dramatically when youths in Idogun, located within the Ose Local Government Area, blocked major roads to prevent the late ruler’s body from entering the community, demanding that proper tradition and due process be observed.

Consequently, the fierce resistance forced the royal family to return the monarch’s remains to a morgue in Owo, leaving all funeral arrangements in limbo.

Speaking on the government’s prompt response, Adelami emphasised that the intervention aims to restore peace and prevent further unrest while urging all aggrieved parties to embrace dialogue regarding the monarch’s installation and aborted burial.

To ensure a thorough process, the newly formed committee will be chaired by Dele Adesanmi, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, alongside two royal family representatives and five community leaders.

In support of the initiative, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, appealed to both the royal family and community elders to cooperate fully with the panel for a swift and amicable resolution.