The custom has been inherited from generation to generation. The symbol of the unity of the race is kingship. Its cradle is Ile-Ife, the cherished sacred abode of its progenitor, Oduduwa.
Whenever any Owooni (Ooni) Adimula joins his ancestors, the news is not broken without following the due process of culture. Ooni is the property of Yoruba race. He is the custodian of the household of Oduduwa, its shrine and the protector of its legacies.
Therefore, it is absolutely a taboo for any prince, royal family and palace chiefs to break the news without clearance or approval from the appropriate traditional quarters. (Not to mention journalists, bloggers or just anyone on the internet who had privileged of knowing about such occurrence.)
The announcement of the Ooni’s death is a traditional role conferred on Oore, the Oore of Otun and Mobaland, an helper of Oduduwa and one of the 16 foremost monarchs in Yorubaland. The reigning Oore is Oba Adedapo Popoola.
The Oore of Mobaland, Oba (Dr.) James Adedapo Popoola JP, CON, Odundun I Adimula, is a first class traditional ruler and former Chairman of the Ekiti State Traditional Council of Obas and Chiefs. He is an economist and chartered accountant.
After ascertaining that the Ooni has waja (died), the palace chiefs are expected to inform the Oore.
The Oore will mourn his passage in a traditional way. He will not waste time in breaking the news to other Oduduwa children, especially the Alaafin, the descendant of Oranmiyan Akinorun, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, the Oba of Benin, the Onipopo of Popo, the Onisabe of Sabe, and the Owa Obokun Adimula. The Oore will also carry along the Ajero Asotemaru, the Alara and the Obalufon Alayemore.
The foremost rulers will break the news to their towns and vassal towns. Days of mourning will be declared. The attention of the towns and villages will focus on Ile-Ife, the Orirun, where their kings obtained their legitimate crowns.
In ancient times, a celebration will be proclaimed, with its characteristic visitation to the cradle by monarchs, accompanied by their chiefs and families. The palace chiefs will play dominant roles during the burial ceremony. They will also play dominant roles during the selection of a new prince for the prestigious throne.
After the new Ooni is crowned, Yoruba monarchs will accord him automatic recognition and respect. He may visit selected palaces of his brother obas in the spirit of brotherhood. As a prince, he must know the history of the race by heart. He is expected to be factual.
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Aren't Yoruba's rich in culture?
So, Yorubas, relax, Ooni is 'alive' until Oore says otherwise.
