Ogun LG Dismisses Reports of Chief’s Suspension over Awujale Stool
Ogun LG Dismisses Reports of Chief’s Suspension over Awujale Stool
The Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, alongside the Ijebu Ode Local Government, has officially debunked reports claiming that three prominent traditional chiefs in Ijebuland have been suspended.
The authorities described the rumours as false and misleading, noting that they were designed to create unnecessary tension within the traditional institution.
The joint clarification was issued by the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, and the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Dare Alebiosu.
The statement specifically addressed rumors regarding the Kakanfo of Ijebuland, Chief Abimbola Okenla; the Lapoekun of Ijebuland, Chief Tunde Odulaja; and the Madasa of Ijebuland, Chief Lekan Oshifeso.
According to the official statement, “The Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in conjunction with the Ijebu Ode Local Government, have dismissed as false and misleading, a report circulating on social media alleging the suspension of the Kakanfo of Ijebu land, Chief Abimbola Okenla, the Lapoekun of Ijebu land, Chief Tunde Odulaja, and the Madasa of Ijebu land, Chief Lekan Oshifeso, from the Council of Chiefs.”
The government further emphasized that the reports were the work of mischief-makers seeking to cause disharmony during a sensitive period for the kingdom.
They reiterated that the selection and discipline of chiefs follow rigorous legal frameworks and traditional customs, which had not been invoked against any of the mentioned individuals.
This development comes during a period of heightened activity following the passing of the long-reigning monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, in July 2025.
The process to select a new Awujale from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House has faced several delays and administrative interventions by the state government to ensure a transparent transition.
To maintain order during this interregnum, the state has appointed an administrative body led by the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Chief Folorunso Kuku. Interestingly, some of the chiefs mentioned in the false suspension reports are currently serving as active members of this government-recognized administrative committee.
The authorities have urged the public to disregard any information regarding the Awujale stool that does not originate from official government channels.
They stressed that maintaining peace and public order is the primary goal while the traditional selection process continues under the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of 2021.
