After weeks of stalling and deflecting, the Ife traditional council in Osun State, has confirmed the death of the Ooni of Ife, Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II.

The Ooni of Ife was reported to have passed away in London, UK, on July 28.

The Awara of Iwara-Ife, Chief Layi Adereti, who spoke on behalf of the council of chiefs on Monday, August 10, said the official proclamation of the death of the Ooni, would be made on Wednesday, August 12.

The statement said:

“This is an official statement from the palace of Awara of Iwara-Ife who is the 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.

The 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 diety will be out.

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