The legal battle over who becomes the next Awujale of Ijebuland has officially begun, with Fuji music icon Otunba Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as Kwam 1, dragging the Ogun State Government and other key bodies to court.
Court Action Halts Royal Selection
On December 16, 2025, Ayinde filed a suit at the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, seeking an injunction to stop all steps towards the nomination and installation of a new monarch. He argues the process is flawed and violates the state's chieftaincy laws.
The musician joined several parties as respondents in his legal action. 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 Process and Royal Rights
In his application, Kwam 1 contends that he is a bona fide member of both the Fusengbuwa and Fidipote ruling houses. He claims his rights as a potential candidate for the throne are under threat from an unlawful procedure.
A central part of his claim is that due process was ignored. He specifically points to the failure to formally publish the names of the 13 recognised kingmakers before starting the selection exercise. Ayinde maintains this omission makes the entire process illegal and open to legal challenge.
He also described the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council as an "unrecognised body" that is wrongly influencing the nomination. To support his royal lineage, Ayinde referenced the title of Olori Omo-Oba conferred on him by the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, arguing it confirms his recognised royal descent.
Government Intervenes, Orders Fresh Start
The court action comes after the throne became vacant following the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona in July 2025 at the age of 91, after a reign spanning over six decades. Ayinde had formally indicated interest in the throne earlier in December, sparking public debate.
Shortly after the suit was filed, the Ogun State Government announced the cancellation of the ongoing selection process. Prof. Fassy Yusuf, Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, confirmed the government directed a restart to correct 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 and to prevent "unnecessary litigation."
Meanwhile, the Fidipote Ruling House, which is historically linked to Kwam 1, has formally written to authorities. They claim the right to present candidates because the Fusengbuwa family failed to meet the statutory 14-day deadline, which lapsed on December 16, 2025. They cite Section 16(1)(c) of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, 2021, which allows the next ruling house in line to step in under such circumstances.
The succession process for one of Nigeria's most revered traditional stools now awaits judicial and procedural clarity, with a famous musician at the heart of the legal storm.
