The Ogun State Government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, has taken a decisive step into the sensitive succession process for the vacant throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland. This intervention came just as the Fusengbuwa Ruling House was set to begin its nomination exercise.
Government Halts Nomination for Crucial Review
The ruling house was forced to suspend its nomination meeting, originally scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Bisrod Hall in Ijebu-Ode's GRA. The postponement followed a direct summons from the state government. Officials called for a meeting on Tuesday to scrutinize the entire selection procedure and ensure strict compliance with all existing laws and traditions.
Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House and a former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), clarified the situation. He stated that the move was a proactive step to prevent any procedural missteps that could later result in expensive and divisive litigation.
"The postponement has nothing to do with any individual," Owoyemi emphasized. "We received a summons from the state government for a meeting. The aim is to ensure everything is done correctly so the process does not become a fertile ground for legal controversy." He welcomed the government's involvement, noting it would help maintain high standards and ensure a flawless selection.
Over 60 Princes in Contention for Historic Throne
Professor Fassy Yusuf of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), who serves as Vice Chairman of the ruling house, provided further details. He confirmed that the government invited the ruling house, the kingmakers, and the Awujale Interregnum Committee to a joint meeting.
Yusuf also revealed the staggering scale of interest in the revered stool. No fewer than 60 princes from the ruling house have expressed their desire to succeed the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The revered monarch, who passed away in July 2025, reigned for an exceptional 65 years, marking one of the longest reigns in Nigeria's traditional history.
"The government will meet with the ruling house, the kingmakers, and the Awujale Interregnum Committee," Yusuf said. "It is to ensure everything is in order, and the outcome of this meeting will determine when the nomination meeting will be held." He dismissed rumors linking the postponement to any specific individual as "mischievous and spreading falsehood."
Urgency and the Path Forward
The succession process has gained significant urgency. The local government authorities had previously given the Fusengbuwa Ruling House a 14-day deadline to submit the names of candidates for the throne. The state government's intervention is now expected to shape and guide the next critical steps in this high-stakes selection.
Owoyemi also addressed circulating rumors about popular Fuji musician Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM1). He reiterated that the musician is not a member of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House and is therefore not eligible to contest for the Awujale stool, dismissing any connection between the postponement and his alleged interest.
All eyes are now on the outcome of the government's meeting with the traditional stakeholders. This intervention underscores the delicate balance between preserving ancient customs and adhering to modern legal frameworks in the selection of a new monarch for one of Yorubaland's most prominent kingdoms.
