The ancient kingdom of Ijebuland in Ogun State has begun the traditional process of selecting a new Awujale following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona on July 13. The late monarch, who reigned for 65 years, was the 55th Awujale from the Anikinaiya ruling house.
According to the 1957 Chieftaincy Declaration, the throne now rotates to the Fusengbuwa ruling house, which comprises eight royal families including the Olufadi, Adesimbo Tunwase, and Okuyandewo lineages.
The selection process has already seen early contention as three prominent figures – Dr. Adekunle Hassan, Prince Adedokun Ajidagba, and Otunba AbdulLateef Owoyemi – are all claiming the position of Olori-Ebi, the family head who oversees the nomination of candidates.
Prince Ajidagba recently led the traditional beating of the gbedu drums, signaling the Fusengbuwa house’s readiness to present candidates.
He emphasized the need to follow tradition, stating the family possesses a 2023 certificate confirming its eligibility from the Ijebu-Ode Local Government.
Among potential candidates, Prince Bolaji Balogun, CEO of Chapel Hill Denham and son of late banking magnate Otunba Subomi Balogun, has emerged as a strong contender.
The Balogun family has long been associated with royal aspirations in Ijebuland. The selection process will involve the 13-member Council of Kingmakers and include intensive oracle consultations after the mandatory three-month mourning period.
Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ganiyu Hamzat assured that the state government would follow due process in accordance with the chieftaincy laws.
A palace source revealed that the successful candidate must undergo months of traditional rites before coronation and will be expected to uphold the high standards set by the late Oba Adetona’s 65-year reign.
The transition marks a critical moment for one of Yorubaland’s most influential traditional institutions, with the new Awujale set to lead a kingdom spanning five local government areas and over two million inhabitants.
Observers are watching closely as the Fusengbuwa house prepares to select its first monarch since 1895.
