In a surprising turn of events, the renowned Fuji music maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate or KWAM 1, has officially withdrawn from the legal contest for the vacant Awujale of Ijebuland throne. The singer filed a notice of discontinuance, bringing a sudden halt to a court case that had captivated public attention.
The Legal Challenge and Sudden Withdrawal
KWAM 1 had initially approached the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode on December 16, 2025. His lawsuit sought to halt all processes aimed at installing a new Awujale, the paramount ruler of Ijebuland. The legal action named key figures including the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, the state's Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Attorney General.
Other respondents included the Secretary of the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, the Chairman of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council, and the Chairman of the Funsengbuwa Ruling House. The core of the musician's argument centered on the legitimacy of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council, which he claimed was not recognized under existing chieftaincy laws.
He further contended that due process was bypassed, specifically the failure to formally publish the names of the thirteen recognized kingmakers before starting any nomination exercise. This alleged omission, according to K1, cast a shadow over the entire selection process.
Public Scrutiny and Royal Lineage
Since expressing interest in the revered stool, KWAM 1 faced intense scrutiny and debate online, with some sections of the public questioning his indigene status in Ijebuland. In response, the Fuji star consistently defended his royal credentials. He referenced the prestigious title of Olori Omo-Oba (Head of the Princes) conferred upon him by the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as proof of his genuine royal lineage.
The succession process itself had already been fraught with controversy. In a related development, the Ogun State Government, via a letter dated December 2, 2025, and signed by the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretary, Oke Adebanjo, had earlier cancelled the ongoing selection process. The Funsengbuwa Ruling House was directed to present a candidate within fourteen days.
Netizens React to K1's Decision
The news of K1's withdrawal from the legal race sparked a flurry of reactions across social media platforms. Many users shared their opinions on the development.
User @oluwadamilare_xiv commented, "If you are a big man not all should go after posts sometimes, just maintain your champion for where you they." This sentiment of focusing on his existing musical empire was echoed by others.
Another user, @iam_starqueen, wondered, "But he wants to leave music to become a king koyemi ooo... He is already a king in his career not only to Ijebus but to the world... I can't just imagine if he became king what will happen to those lively parties in plays?"
Some reactions were critical, with @abdulmojeedyemi stating, "He lost the respect of his people," while @akoredenel speculated, "He will later call him godfather to help me settle everything. I don’t understand nah only him want everything, politician Musician King lol."
Others saw a lesson in the episode. User @idnoblegram advised, "We need to learn from this K1 situation, any position you find yourself today or tomorrow, let people feel your presence, create a positive impact and create a good legacy."
The filing of the notice of discontinuance marks a significant pivot in the unfolding Awujale succession saga. It remains to be seen how the process will proceed following the withdrawal of one of its most prominent and controversial potential contenders. This development leaves the path open for the traditional institutions and the Ogun State government to navigate the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland.