Amanze Chinonye
The Ogun State Government has temporarily halted the process to select a new Awujale of Ijebuland, marking the second suspension in less than a month, following reports from stakeholders and security agencies.
A strong security presence was observed at the Awujale palace, including police officers and NSCDC personnel, deployed to maintain public order.
The stool became vacant in July 2025 after the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years and died at the age of 91, leaving a highly respected legacy.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a press release dated January 20, 2026, signed by Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the government explained the rationale for halting the selection:
“The Awujale stool is a foremost stool in Yoruba land generally and in Ogun State particularly, where it is one of the paramount stools. Further, the stature of the immediate past Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona – who reigned for sixty-five (65) years – significantly enhanced the modern esteem and prestige of the stool. These realities place a lot of focus, attention and scrutiny on the next Awujale and the process by which he emerges.
In this regard, the State Government has received several petitions, reports from security agencies and other key stakeholders in relation to the ongoing selection process. In order to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the process, and maintain the veneration of the stool, it has become imperative to halt the selection process for the stool at this time.
Government has had due regard to the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021 which empower it to ‘set aside an appointment if the Executive Council is satisfied that it is in the interest of peace, order and good government to do so.’ Thus, given the reports at its disposal, Government has elected to act proactively without further delay in the interest of peace, order and good government by halting the process in its entirety.
The State Government hereby directs that you convey this decision to the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House immediately. The latter should be advised to await further directives regarding the selection process.”
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Earlier, on December 18, 2025, the government had temporarily suspended the process over procedural concerns. The Fusengbuwa Ruling House had shortlisted 95 contestants, including 94 princes and one princess, at a nomination meeting in Ijebu-Ode.
The selection process has drawn widespread public attention, including from Fuji musician Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM1, who had sought an interim injunction to stop the proceedings.
Dr. Sonny Kuku, Regent and head of the Awujale Interregnum Administration Committee, confirmed the government’s directive on Wednesday and assured the public that kingmakers remain independent. He emphasized that the heavy security presence is a precaution and not intended to influence the selection.
“We are handling a very delicate responsibility. Our decisions can affect the lives of the people for centuries, so we are being extremely careful. We assure the public that the best candidate will emerge as the next Awujale,” Kuku said.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had planned to profile all 95 nominees as part of the vetting process, but this exercise has also been suspended in line with the government’s directive.
Meanwhile, aspirant Wasiu Adewale Olasunkanmi Adesanya formally petitioned the government, urging that the selection process resume inclusively, transparently, and fairly. Adesanya, tracing his lineage to Princess Anifowoshe of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, stressed the importance of a process that promotes unity and public confidence while safeguarding the prestige of the Awujale stool.
The government’s suspension relies on powers granted under the Obas and Chiefs’ Law, 2021, which allows intervention to maintain peace, order, and good governance.
No timeline has yet been provided for when the selection will resume, but both government and kingmakers are in consultations to ensure a credible and peaceful conclusion to the process.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
