The peaceful selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland has been plunged into a legal battle, with famous Fuji musician Otunba Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, dragging the Ogun State Government and other authorities to court.
Legal Challenge Halts Royal Process
On December 16, 2025, Ayinde approached the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, seeking an injunction to stop all steps towards nominating and installing a new monarch. He argued the process was flawed and violated the state's chieftaincy laws.
The musician joined several parties as respondents in his suit. These include the Ogun State Governor, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Attorney General. Also listed are the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, the Chairman of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council, and the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.
Claims of Flawed Procedure and Royal Rights
In his application, Ayinde contended that he is a bona fide member of both the Fusengbuwa and Fidipote ruling houses. He claimed his rights as a potential candidate for the throne were under threat from an unlawful process.
A central part of his claim is that due process was ignored. He specifically pointed to the failure to formally publish the names of the 13 recognised kingmakers before starting the selection exercise. Ayinde described the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council as an "unrecognised body" that was wrongly influencing the nomination.
This legal action follows the death of the revered Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona in July 2025. The monarch, who was 91, had reigned for over six decades. Ayinde had formally indicated his interest in the throne earlier in December, a move that sparked public debate about his lineage and eligibility. He has defended his royal descent, noting that the late Awujale would not have given him the title of Olori Omo-Oba if he were not of recognised royal blood.
Government Intervenes, Cancels Process
The court case prompted swift action from the Ogun State Government. Within days, the government announced the cancellation of the ongoing selection process.
Professor Fassy Yusuf, the Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, confirmed the development. He stated that the government directed a restart after identifying procedural errors that could lead to litigation. "The government wants us to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs Law regarding the installation of the Awujale," Yusuf said. "The earlier letter, which gave the ruling house 14 days to submit candidates, has been withdrawn. We are going to begin the process afresh."
A senior state government official, speaking anonymously, said the intervention aimed to correct how the local government initiated the process. The official emphasized it was about "ensuring that the right thing is done in accordance with the law" and preventing "unnecessary litigation."
Adding another layer to the complex succession, the Fidipote Ruling House has formally written to the authorities. They claim it is now their turn to present candidates. In their letter, they argued that the Fusengbuwa family failed to meet the statutory deadline of December 16, 2025. They cited Section 16(1)(c) of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, 2021, which states that if the first entitled ruling house fails, the next in line under the rotation order becomes legally entitled to present candidates.
The situation remains in flux, with the court yet to rule on KWAM 1's suit and the government mandating a completely new selection process according to the law.
