Ogun State Halts Awujale Selection Process for Second Time in a Month
The Ogun State government has once again suspended the selection process for the new Awujale of Ijebu land, marking the second such halt within a month. This decision has led to a significant deployment of security forces at the Awujale palace, raising concerns among local communities and stakeholders.
Background on the Awujale Stool
The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the passing of 91-year-old Oba Sikiru Adetona, who had ruled for 65 years. The vacancy has since sparked a complex selection process, which has drawn widespread public attention and involvement from various groups, including traditional leaders and even celebrities like Fuji musician Ayinde.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the government cited the need to protect public order, safeguard the integrity of the selection process, and maintain the prestige of the Awujale stool. According to Hamzat, the suspension was made to ensure peace, order, and good governance.
Previous Suspension and Current Developments
This is not the first time the process has been halted. Earlier, on December 18, 2025, the state government suspended the selection due to procedural errors that could lead to legal disputes. At that time, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House had shortlisted 95 contestants, including 94 princes and one princess, during a nomination meeting held at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode.
On Wednesday, the Regent and head of the Awujale Interregnum Administration Committee, Dr. Sonny Kuku, confirmed the suspension. He emphasized that the kingmakers are currently consulting with the government to resume the process as soon as possible, as the general public is eagerly awaiting the emergence of the new Awujale.
Kuku also addressed reports of government interference, stating that the kingmakers are unaware of any such actions and that these claims should be treated as mere speculation. He further clarified that the government does not directly interfere in the deliberations of the kingmakers.
Security Presence and Public Concerns
The heavy presence of security personnel at the Awujale palace has raised questions about the nature of the suspension. However, Kuku explained that the security measures are intended to inform the public that the selection process has been temporarily paused. He emphasized that there is no physical or emotional conflict taking place and that the goal is to ensure peace and avoid anxiety among the people.
Kuku also mentioned that the kingmakers have not received any petitions reportedly written by stakeholders and security agencies regarding the selection process. He urged the government to forward any such documents to them, as they are committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in the process.
DSS Involvement and Aspirant’s Appeal
The Department of State Services (DSS) had planned to profile the 95 nominees at their office in Ijebu-Ode. This profiling was part of a comprehensive vetting process for aspirants to the Awujale stool. However, the exercise was suspended in line with the state government’s directive halting the selection process. The DSS emphasized that the suspension is a government decision and not an action initiated by the agency.
One contender, Mr. Wasiu Adewale Olasunkanmi Adesanya, wrote to the Ogun State Government urging that the halted process be resumed inclusively, transparently, and fairly. In his letter, Adesanya highlighted his qualifications as a descendant of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House and expressed concern over the potential exclusion of eligible contenders.
Conclusion
The ongoing suspension of the Awujale selection process underscores the delicate balance between tradition, governance, and public expectations. As the kingmakers continue their efforts to select the best candidate, the government remains a key player in ensuring the process adheres to the law and maintains the dignity of the Awujale stool.
