GOVERNOR Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State yesterday disclosed that the burial rites for the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Samuel Odulana, would begin on February 6, while his remains would be interred on February 12, in the state capital. 

Ajimobi, who announced this during a condolence visit to the Monatan, residence of the deceased, said President Muhammad Buhari would be expected to lead other dignitaries to the city for the burial ceremonies.

He said 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 is given a stately final farewell.

Ajimobi said a burial committee would be unveiled in due course, adding that details of the activities would also be made public when all activities have been agreed upon. 

The governor said: “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 Odulana 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 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 Odulana for the continued development, peace and progress of Ibadanland.