As the final rites of passage for the Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuwade Okunade, continued on Sunday, indications emerged that trees around the palace and significant traditional sites in Ile-Ife would soon be felled.
The felling of trees in the history of Ife traditional stool is the last stage of rites before the death of a king is announced to the public.
A reliable source close to the palace disclosed that the felling of trees would commence in the next few days.
The source said, “The rites have commenced in earnest. The felling of trees will come up very soon. It would be done on an odd day. It will be done in strict adherence to the highest traditional regulations.
“By odd day, I mean it won’t be on the 2nd or the 4th of the 6th. The family members of Oba Sijuwade have moved all their properties outside from the palace. Immediately the announcement is made, nobody is allowed to enter into the palace through the gate but through a small backdoor”.
