Nigerian King forbidden from seeing his mother, even in death

In the town of Odo Owa, Kwara State, Nigeria, a centuries-old tradition has been upheld, forbidding the king from seeing his mother, whether she is alive or deceased.

King Joshua Adegbuyi Adeyemi, the Olota of Odo Owa, revealed to Diaspora Digital Media that he is not permitted to see his mother’s dead body or any other dead body, including his own child until they are six months old.

The monarch explained that these taboos have been in place for generations and are attached to the Olota throne. He also mentioned that he is not allowed to eat certain foods, enter a room with a woman during the day, or engage in farming, as it is believed to bring suffering and poverty to the town.

King Adeyemi shared a personal experience, stating, “Once I ascended the throne, it was forbidden for me to see my mother, whether she was alive or dead. Since the day Iwarefa took the cloth my mother used to wrap me as a child, we haven’t seen each other again until she died in 2023.” This poignant revelation highlights the strict adherence to tradition in the town.

The king expressed his desire to modernize these practices, stating, “If the chiefs agree to let me make modern changes, my mother would live with me. No matter how old a child is, their parent’s advice surpasses their own wisdom.” This desire for change showcases the tension between tradition and modernity in the town.

This unique tradition is a fascinating aspect of Yoruba culture and highlights the significance of respecting ancestral practices and beliefs in the town of Odo Owa.

About Odo Owa 

Located in Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, Odo Owa is steep in history and culture, making it a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

As the headquarters of the Iloffa/Odo-Owa District, Odo-Owa is home to a diverse population of people from various backgrounds, including Iloffa, Odo-Owa, Igbede, Kajola, Imode, and Egosi. The town’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its vibrant festivals, such as the Are Festival and the New Yam Festival, which showcase the community’s music, dance, and cuisine.

Odo-Owa is also home to several tourist attractions, including the ancient Palace of the defunct Orota Kingdom and the Odo-Owa Adin Factory. The palace, with its crumbling walls and rich history, serves as a reminder of the town’s storied past.

The Adin Factory, on the other hand, offers a glimpse into the town’s industrial heritage.

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