Burial Controversy Rocks Ada As Open Letter Challenges Royal Funeral Plans For Prince Ponnle

Tension is mounting in Ada, Osun State, following an open letter challenging key aspects of the burial arrangements for Prince Ayantunde “Baba MicCom” Ponnle, a revered son of the community whose funeral is scheduled in the coming days.

The letter, written by Jacob Ogunleye Oladapo of Ile Aoogun, Ada, has been widely circulated across the town, igniting debate in markets, town squares, and private gatherings. In the strongly worded message, Ogunleye questioned elements of the programme released by the late prince’s children and the Oludele Ruling House, citing alleged breaches of Yoruba royal tradition.
Prince Ponnle, who died at the age of 85, was celebrated as one of Ada’s most accomplished figures — a devoted entrepreneur, respected community leader, and committed Christian who dedicated nearly seven decades to service. In his letter, metaphorically addressed to the late prince “as he lies in the mortuary awaiting burial,” Ogunleye paid glowing tribute to his life, describing his passing as peaceful, honourable, and dignified.
However, he raised two major objections to the funeral arrangements.

The first concerns plans to lay the late prince in state at the Osogbo residence of his wife, Princess Titilayo Ponnle. Ogunleye argued that under Yoruba custom — particularly for a man born into royalty — lying in state in his wife’s personal residence constitutes a cultural violation.
While acknowledging that the prince stayed in the Osogbo house during visits, he maintained that the property was built and owned by Princess Ponnle before their marriage and is neither the prince’s ancestral home nor part of his royal heritage. Proceeding with the arrangement, he warned, could symbolically diminish the dignity of a Yoruba prince.

Despite his objections, Ogunleye commended Princess Titilayo Ponnle for what he described as her unwavering devotion and care throughout their marriage. He urged the children and members of the Oludele Ruling House not to allow emotions to override established customs or inadvertently place her at the centre of what he termed a cultural aberration.

The second issue relates to the choice of venue for the funeral service. According to the programme released by the family, the service is scheduled to hold at the grounds of Commercial Grammar School, Ada, to accommodate the large number of dignitaries expected.
Ogunleye questioned the decision, pointing out that the late prince and his wife, Princess Olufunke Ponnle, built and donated the First Baptist Church, Ada, to the Baptist community. He argued that the church holds deep historical and symbolic ties to the Ponnle family and the Oludele Ruling House, having hosted the funerals of several prominent members of the royal lineage.
Holding the service at a secular venue instead of First Baptist Church, he contended, undermines the family’s legacy and weakens the symbolic value attached to the church.

Beyond the specific objections, the letter reflects a broader concern about what Ogunleye described as a growing detachment from cultural heritage among some members of the royal family, particularly those who have lived abroad. He called on family elders, traditional authorities in Ada, and the Olona-in-Council to ensure that the burial arrangements do not contravene Yoruba customs and royal traditions.

As preparations continue, residents of Ada are watching closely to see whether the concerns raised will prompt a review of the arrangements — or whether the family will proceed as planned in what has become an emotionally charged royal burial dispute.