The Ogun State Government has issued a strong rebuttal against circulating media reports which suggested that a specific individual has already been chosen for the highly revered and currently vacant throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Due Process
In a statement released on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in Abeokuta, the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Honourable Ganiyu Hamzat, categorically denied the allegations. He clarified the government's position, emphasizing that the selection process for the next Awujale is being conducted strictly in line with established protocols.
Hamzat stated that the procedure is guided by customary law, the existing Chieftaincy Declarations, and the relevant laws of Ogun State. He assured the public that the state government remains a neutral arbiter, fully dedicated to upholding principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for the long-standing traditions of the Ijebu people throughout this critical period.
Strong Warning Against Misinformation and Breach of Peace
The commissioner issued a stern warning to individuals and groups engaged in spreading false information. He described such actions as deliberate attempts to cause tension, disaffection, or a breach of the peace within Ijebuland and the wider state.
Hamzat stressed that anyone found fabricating, promoting, or circulating unverified claims about the Awujale succession would face investigation and possible prosecution under the law. He specifically pointed to Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, which could be invoked against anyone who parades themselves as the Awujale-elect before the official conclusion of the legally recognised process.
He urged members of the public to disregard sensational publications and called on the media, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to act responsibly by verifying information through official government channels before dissemination.
Ruling House Confident in Process, Announces Timelines
In a related development, the head of the Olori Ebi Fusengbuwa ruling house, Otunba Abdul Lateef Owoyemi, has provided an update on the process from the family's perspective. Owoyemi, a former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), spoke on Monday, January 12, following the nomination phase.
He revealed that the ruling house had successfully and peacefully nominated eighty-six (86) princes and princesses who expressed interest in the throne. "We have 19 days for anyone aggrieved to express their displeasure," Owoyemi stated, outlining a window for grievances.
He explained that the list of nominees has now been handed over to the kingmakers, whose duty is to scrutinize and select the most suitable candidate. The selected name will then be forwarded to the state government for final approval.
Owoyemi expressed strong confidence in the outcome, assuring that within one month, Ijebuland would have a new monarch. He attributed this confidence to extensive traditional consultations. "We in the Fusegbuwa ruling house have conducted extensive traditional research through the oracles to guide us... and we have no doubt at all that the kingmakers will select the person the Almighty God himself has appointed, and our ancestors have also blessed," he affirmed.
The government's statement and the ruling house's update collectively underscore a sensitive but ongoing traditional process, with authorities keen to manage information and prevent any actions that could disrupt the peace and integrity of the institution.
