A High Court in Ogun State has thrown out an application by renowned Fuji musician, Otunba Wasiu Ayinde, also known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, which sought to stop the process for selecting the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
Court Denies Injunction, Orders Fast-Tracked Hearing
Presiding over the case at the Ijebu-Ode division, Justice A. A. Omoniyi ruled on Monday, December 22, 2025, that the application lacked merit. The court refused to grant an interim injunction that would have halted the traditional selection process. However, in a significant move, the judge ordered an accelerated hearing of the substantive suit, scheduling it to commence on January 14, 2026.
The legal action was initiated by Ayinde, who hails from the Fidipote ruling house. He challenged the committee overseeing the installation, questioning why only the Fusengbuwa ruling house was being considered to produce the next Awujale. His lawsuit named several respondents, including:
- Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
- Chairman of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi.
- The Executive Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government.
- The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
- The Secretary to Ijebu-Ode Local Government.
- The Chairman of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council.
Filed under suit number HC3/238/2025, Ayinde's claims allege that the succession process breaches the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law and infringes upon his constitutional rights.
Government Cancels Selection Process After Court Challenge
In a swift development following the court challenge, the Ogun State Government took a decisive step. It cancelled the ongoing selection process for the new Awujale just days after the lawsuit was filed.
Prof. Fassy Yusuf, the Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, confirmed the government's decision. He stated that the process was being restarted to correct procedural errors that could potentially lead to further litigation. "The government wants to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs Law regarding the installation of the Awujale," Yusuf explained.
Implications and Next Steps
This series of events highlights the intricate intersection of traditional succession, legal frameworks, and high-profile public interest. The court's dismissal of the interim application means the selection committee could have theoretically proceeded. However, the government's subsequent cancellation and commitment to a lawful restart have temporarily reset the process.
All eyes will now be on the accelerated court hearing set for January 14, 2026, where the substantive issues raised by Otunba Wasiu Ayinde will be fully argued. The outcome of that hearing is likely to significantly influence the newly restarted selection process for one of Nigeria's most revered traditional stools.
