A peaceful protest erupted on Friday in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, as residents took to the streets to oppose alleged moves to impose the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
The protesters, made up of youths, community leaders, and concerned indigenes, marched along Awujale Palace Road before proceeding to the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat to formally register their displeasure. Chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards with various inscriptions, the demonstrators called for transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to tradition in the selection of the next paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
Participants in the protest expressed concern that powerful interests were attempting to influence or manipulate the succession process, warning that such actions could undermine the long-standing customs and unity of the ancient kingdom. They insisted that the selection of the Awujale must follow due process, guided by tradition and the established roles of the kingmakers, without external interference.
The protest followed the decision of the Ogun State Government to halt the Awujale selection process earlier in the week. In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the government announced the suspension of the exercise after receiving multiple petitions and security reports from various stakeholders.
According to the government, the petitions raised concerns capable of threatening public order and the integrity of the revered Awujale stool if not properly addressed. The state authorities said the suspension was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing tension, unrest, or breakdown of law and order in Ijebuland.
During the protest, demonstrators urged the state government to ensure that the succession process remains transparent and inclusive, stressing that any attempt to impose a candidate could lead to lasting division within the community. Some speakers warned that Ijebuland’s peace and stability should not be sacrificed for political or personal interests.
Security operatives were deployed to strategic locations along the protest route and around public buildings to maintain order. The demonstration remained peaceful, with no reports of violence or confrontation, as protesters dispersed after submitting their grievances at the local government secretariat.
Many residents have called on all parties involved in the succession process to exercise restraint and respect the cultural heritage of Ijebuland. They appealed to the government, kingmakers, and ruling houses to engage in dialogue and allow due process to take its course in order to preserve peace, unity, and the dignity of the Awujale institution.
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