The head of the Fusengbuwa Royal Family in Ijebu Ode has publicly commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for maintaining a stance of neutrality and refusing to interfere in the crucial nomination process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland. This praise comes amidst a highly contested selection involving numerous candidates and follows strong warnings from the state government against spreading misinformation.
Royal Family's Public Commendation
Adedokun Ajidagba, the Olori Ebi (head) of the Fusengbuwa Royal Family, expressed his gratitude to the governor during a visit by market women to his Ijebu Ode country home on Tuesday, January 14, 2026. The market women were there to congratulate him on the successful conduct of the nomination process, which was held the previous day, Monday, January 13.
In his remarks, Ajidagba described Governor Abiodun as a distinguished personality and a leader of great integrity. He assured members of his royal family that while all the contestants for the revered stool are highly qualified, only one candidate would ultimately be selected. He expressed confidence that "the best will emerge as the next Awujale of Ijebuland."
Government's Stern Warning Against False Claims
This commendation from the royal family arrives just one day after the Ogun State government issued a firm statement debunking widespread speculations. There had been rumors suggesting that the state government had already chosen a favorite candidate from among the 95 individuals reportedly vying for the position.
The state's Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, categorically denied these claims. He warned that the government would not hesitate to prosecute any person or group found fabricating, promoting, or circulating such false information under the full weight of relevant laws.
Hamzat went further to issue a specific threat regarding the Obas and Chiefs Law. He stated that the government would invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against anyone who begins to masquerade as the "Awujale-elect" before the official selection process is fully and properly completed.
Implications for a Transparent Selection
The simultaneous events—a royal family praising gubernatorial neutrality and a government threatening legal action against meddlers—highlight the sensitive and highly watched nature of filling the Awujale stool. The position is one of the most significant traditional roles in Yorubaland, making the integrity of the selection process paramount.
The government's proactive stance aims to ensure that the process is not tainted by external influence or public misinformation, allowing the kingmakers and traditional institutions to follow established customs without undue pressure. The Fusengbuwa family's public endorsement of the governor's hands-off approach serves to reinforce the perception of a fair and transparent succession process for the ancient throne.
