The race for the revered throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland has officially commenced with the nomination of a staggering ninety-five (95) princes and princesses as potential candidates. The historic nomination exercise, which took place on Monday, 12 January 2026, in Ijebu-Ode, marks a critical first step in selecting a successor to the stool.
A Comprehensive List of Royal Aspirants
The extensive nomination list features a wide array of royal bloodlines, underscoring the deep interest in the prestigious position. Among the notable nominees are Prince Adetunji Adeleke, Prince Bello Ayodeji, Princess Oluwakemi Onanuga, and Prince Babatunde Alesinloye. The list also includes prominent names such as Prince Abimbola Onabanjo, Prince Adekunle Adenuga, Prince Kayode Adenuga, and Prince Abdul Lateef Owoyemi, the latter being a former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
Initially, eighty-six candidates were formally nominated, but the process saw an additional nine names put forward at the venue, bringing the final tally to ninety-five. This demonstrates the highly competitive nature of the succession for one of Yorubaland's most influential royal seats.
The Road to the Throne: Process and Assurance
Speaking after the nominations, Otunba Abdul Lateef Owoyemi, a senior figure from the Olori Ebi Fusengbuwa ruling house, addressed the procedure. He outlined a clear timeline, stating that aggrieved parties have 19 days to channel any grievances to the government. He firmly assured the public that the kingmakers are committed to a flawless selection.
"We have successfully, peacefully, and harmoniously nominated the candidates today. Now, it's in the hands of the kingmakers to do their work and select one of them for us," Owoyemi stated. He expressed unwavering confidence in the process, revealing that the ruling house had conducted extensive traditional consultations. "We have no doubt at all that the kingmakers will select the person the Almighty God himself has appointed, and our ancestors have also blessed."
What Happens Next?
The next phase involves the kingmakers meticulously reviewing the list of ninety-five nominees. Their task is to sift through the candidates and identify the most suitable individuals. The shortlisted names will then be forwarded to the Ogun State Government for final approval.
Owoyemi projected optimism about a swift conclusion, assuring that within a month, Ijebuland would have a new monarch to ascend the Awujale's stool. This timeline sets the stage for a period of intense scrutiny and anticipation across Ijebuland and beyond.
The selection of the new Awujale is not just a local affair but a matter of significant cultural and political importance for the entire Yoruba nation and Nigeria, given the historical weight and influence of the Ijebu kingdom.
