A contender for the Awujale throne from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Adebowale Olufeko, has appealed to the Ogun State Government, the Chieftaincy Council, the Afobajes, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to tradition in the ongoing selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
Speaking in Ijebu-Ode alongside other members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Olufeko said the Awujale stool represents not just leadership but the cultural heritage, identity, and unity of the Ijebu people.
He urged authorities overseeing the process to act with justice and caution, stressing that the people of Ijebuland desire peace and unity and should not be subjected to actions capable of creating tension or unrest.
“Our objective is to examine the process, harmonise our views where necessary, and articulate our collective position with wisdom, decorum, and unity, while remaining mindful of tradition, the law, and respect for constituted authority,” Olufeko said.
He commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for developmental efforts in Ijebu-Ode, including the upgrade of the Tai Solarin University of Education to a federal institution, and expressed appreciation for steps taken to ensure that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House produces the next Awujale.
Olufeko also acknowledged the efforts of the Kingmakers, emphasising their sacred role in the selection process.
“All members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House respectfully request that the Kingmakers be allowed to present Ijebuland with a qualified ‘Omo Oye.’ In the end, only one person will emerge to ascend the revered stool of the Awujale,” he said.
He further appreciated the guidance of the Olori Ebis, particularly the Head of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Alhaji Lateef Owoyemi, for providing leadership and direction throughout the process.
Olufeko also called on the Federal Government to prioritise development in Ijebuland, noting that increased federal attention would support growth and stability across the area.
The appeal comes amid heightened debate over the Awujale succession, following protests last Friday by members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House over alleged attempts to impose a candidate. Demonstrators carried placards demanding adherence to tradition and urging that the Kingmakers be allowed to perform their duties without interference.
The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years and died at the age of 91.
Ogun State officials have denied allegations of interference in the selection process. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, had earlier suspended the process temporarily, citing petitions from security agencies and other stakeholders.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to due process and respect for traditional institutions, while the Awujale Interregnum Administration Committee said the Kingmakers are currently scrutinising documents submitted by numerous aspirants to ensure that only qualified candidates emerge.
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