Ogun Government Halts Awujale Selection Process Over Numerous Petitions

The Ogun State Government has again suspended the ongoing selection process for the Awujale of Ijebuland, citing numerous petitions and security concerns that question the integrity of the exercise.

The directive, issued by Ganiyu Hamzat, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, comes after the state received multiple petitions from stakeholders and security agencies expressing concern over irregularities in the selection process. Authorities emphasized that the intervention aims to protect public order and prevent potential unrest in Ijebuland. The controversy centers on the nomination exercise from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, which saw about 95 princes and one princess emerge as contestants following the death of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025. However, the process has faced challenges, including allegations of exclusion and procedural breaches. Among those raising objections is Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Adesanya (KWAM 1), who claimed he was illegally barred from participating in the nomination exercise. KWAM 1 and other aspirants have petitioned the governor, asserting that the exercise violated the Obas and Chiefs Law (2021) and demanded a fresh, transparent selection process. In light of the petitions, the Ogun State Government has paused the selection exercise indefinitely, instructing the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to await further directives. No new timeline has been provided for when the process might resume. The government stated that the suspension is necessary to ensure fairness, uphold tradition, and prevent any legal or social unrest that could arise from continuing the process amid ongoing disputes.