The final burial rites for the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuwade has reportedly been put on hold as the ‘abobaku’ has fled for his life.
Abobaku in yoruba land is the term used to describe “The one who dies with the king”.
Such person is usually appointed upon a king’s coronation, to be buried with the king when he eventually dies.
His job is to serve the king and attend to him in the afterlife.
Given the severity of this position, the Abobaku leads an affluent life, taking care of the king and enjoying numerous benefits in the town.
The Oba’s death in London had allowed word of his demise to filter around, and this reportedly gave the Abobaku ample time to flee.
According to Yoruba tradition, a king does not die alone. His burial rites include being buried with other people. This is when an Abobaku comes into the picture. An 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. An Abobaku also enjoys great benefits while he is still alive.
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