DSS Takes Charge in Awujale Selection Process as Kingmakers Cancel Key Event
In a significant development in the ongoing selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland, the Awujale Kingmakers Council has taken decisive action by cancelling a planned meet-and-greet event and redirecting all nominees to report directly to the Department of State Services (DSS). This unexpected move comes amid heightened tensions and controversy surrounding the royal succession in Ogun State.
Sudden Change in Arrangements
The kingmakers council formally announced the cancellation of the meet-and-greet gathering that was originally scheduled to take place at the Aafin Awujale palace. Instead, all nominees for the prestigious Awujale throne have been instructed to present themselves at the DSS office located in Ijebu-Ode. According to official correspondence dated Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the nominees were required to report by 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
The council expressed sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused by this abrupt change in arrangements, acknowledging the disruption to previously made plans. In their communication to the ruling house leadership, the kingmakers emphasized the importance of strict compliance with this new directive, urging all nominees to maintain punctuality and adhere to the revised schedule without exception.
Background of the Awujale Succession
The Awujale represents the traditional royal title of the ruler of the historic Ijebu Kingdom in Ogun State. This important throne became vacant following the passing of the previous monarch, Ọba Sikiru Olukayọde Adetọna, who died on July 13, 2025, at the advanced age of 91 years. Since that time, the selection process for his successor has been marked by considerable controversy and multiple interruptions.
Recall that the Ogun State government had previously suspended the Awujale selection process on more than one occasion. The most recent intervention came following a formal petition submitted by renowned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, through his legal representatives. This petition prompted the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to issue an official directive halting proceedings temporarily.
Current Selection Dynamics
The selection process has attracted widespread attention, with reports indicating that Ijebu-Ode community leaders nominated an impressive 95 aspirants for consideration following the monarch's passing. The process was designed to ensure transparency, allowing for grievances to be formally raised within a 19-day window following the initial nominations.
Traditional kingmakers were expected to thoroughly review all candidates before submitting their final recommendations to the state government for official approval. However, the latest development involving DSS intervention suggests that security considerations may now be playing a more prominent role in the selection proceedings than previously anticipated.
This development occurs within the broader context of traditional ruler selection processes in Nigeria, where security agencies occasionally become involved to ensure orderly transitions and prevent potential conflicts. The DSS's specific role in this particular case remains to be fully clarified, but their involvement underscores the significance attached to this traditional leadership position within the Ijebu community and Ogun State at large.
