In a move that has stirred significant public discourse, renowned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM1 or K1 De Ultimate, has formally expressed his interest in ascending the revered throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
The Throne is Vacant: A Succession Process Begins
The development follows the passing of the highly respected monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who joined his ancestors in July 2025 at the age of 91. With the kingly rites concluded, the process to select a successor for the influential Ijebu traditional stool is set to commence.
Reports indicate that the music maestro has submitted an official application to join the race for the throne. A document circulating online identifies KWAM1 as a scion of the Fusengbuwa royal family from Agunsebi Quarters in Ijebu-Ode.
KWAM1's Royal Credentials and Cultural Pedigree
In his application letter, the Fuji icon, born in March 1957, presented his credentials for the stool. He emphasised his direct ancestral lineage to Oba Jadiara and highlighted his over five-decade-long career promoting Ijebu, Yoruba, and Nigerian culture globally through his music.
To bolster his application, KWAM1 listed several prestigious traditional and national honours. These include his installation as the Mayegun of Yorubaland in 2020, the conferment of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in 2022, and his recognition as the Olori Omo-Oba and Otunba Afidipotemole of Akile Ijebu in 2023.
Mixed Reactions Trail the Musician's Kingly Ambition
The news of KWAM1's application has elicited a wave of reactions from fans and the public, revealing a clear division in opinion.
A segment of social media users expressed skepticism, questioning the shift from the traditional selection method. One user queried, "So ifa no dey choose again now, na by application?" referencing the pivotal role of the Ifa oracle in historically determining the rightful candidate for the throne. Others wondered about the potential influence of his reported friendship with the President.
Some reactions took a humorous tone, with fans pondering the future of his music career. Comments like, "So who go come sing on my wedding day like this?" and "So oba will go around singing" flooded the comment sections, highlighting his dual identity as both a cultural custodian and a party entertainer.
Conversely, a number of supporters defended his move, affirming his legitimate ties to the Ijebu royal family. One supporter stated plainly, "He’s from the royal family, so he’s on right track," endorsing his right to contest for the stool.
This episode unfolds shortly after the musician laid his 105-year-old mother to rest, demonstrating a period of significant personal and potential professional transition for the Fuji legend.
