Heavy security and high stakes marked the commencement of the nomination process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland on Monday, January 12, 2026. The exercise, held at the Bisirodipe Hall in the GRA area of Ijebu-Ode, saw a significant turnout of princes and princesses from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, which is next in line to produce the monarch.
Security Lockdown and Delayed Start
A joint security team comprising operatives from the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) cordoned off the venue. Access was strictly limited to individuals with valid accreditation, leading to many being turned away at the entrance. The nomination meeting, scheduled to start at noon, began later than planned due to the delayed arrival of officials from the Ijebu-Ode Local Government, led by the council secretary, Hon. Oke Adebanjo.
Despite the tight security, the hall was filled with members of the ruling house, delegates, observers, and residents eager to witness the historic event. Key figures present included the Olori Ebi (family head) of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Otunba Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi, the Chairman, Adedokun Ajidagba, and the Vice Chairman, Prof. Fassy Yusuf.
Drama and Dispute Over Access
The proceedings were not without controversy. A group believed to be from the Orubodo Ruling House was denied entry for failing to present valid passes. The group protested vehemently, accusing the organizers of deliberately excluding them from the selection process. Their leader, Prince Adeyemi Ridwan, an Oduneye from the Orubodo Ruling House, claimed the process was designed to sideline his faction.
This group is widely reported to be the same faction that endorsed and is supporting the candidacy of famous Fuji musician and Olori Omooba of Ijebu Land, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1. The musician, who is said to be from the Fidipote Ruling House, had previously raised serious allegations of being sidelined by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.
KWAM 1's Legal Challenge and Royal Interest
In a letter dated January 8, 2026, written through his lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN), KWAM 1 petitioned Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun. He alleged that the actions of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House contravened the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State. The letter argued that the house's directive for screening by delegates disenfranchised eligible members. This came after an earlier, unsuccessful attempt to secure a court injunction to stop the process.
Meanwhile, the scale of interest in the revered stool became clear. The Olori Ebi, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, announced that a total of 95 princes and princesses from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House have indicated interest in succeeding the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. The revered monarch died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91 after a remarkable 65-year reign.
Otunba Owoyemi explained that the names of candidates who pass the initial screening will be forwarded to the kingmakers, known as the Afobajes. The Afobajes will then select a single candidate, whose name will be sent to the Ogun State Government for official confirmation and appointment as the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
