Ogbomoso has been thrown into mourning following the death of Chief Sunday Babatunde, the custodian of the famous Egungun Danafojura, a revered masquerade known for its fiery performances. Chief Babatunde passed away on Monday morning at the Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Ogbomoso, at the age of 46.
Danafojura, a unique masquerade that sets itself ablaze during performances but must not encounter another fire, is regarded as one of the most powerful and mystically endowed egunguns in Ogbomoso and its environs. Followers of the masquerade attribute its fame to its unparalleled accumulation and use of charms, which define its mystique.
Family sources revealed that Chief Babatunde collapsed in his bathroom on Saturday and was rushed to BUTH, where he succumbed to the illness on Monday morning.
Sympathizers thronged his family residence in the Alakasu area of Ogbomoso when reporters from Ogbomoso Insight visited the compound.
Chief Babatunde was chosen by Ifa to become the custodian of Egungun Danafojura in 2007, marking the beginning of his tenure as the masquerade’s chief representative. Interestingly, he had previously founded and led a church before assuming the role. He was also the operator of a popular beer parlor in Ogbomoso known as Obureke.
The late custodian’s untimely demise has left many in shock, with residents paying tribute to his dual legacy as both a spiritual leader and community figure.
