The Ogun State Government and Ijebu Ode Local Government have dismissed claims that three prominent Ijebu traditional chiefs were suspended from the Ijebu Council of Chiefs, calling the reports false, misleading, and capable of causing unrest.
In a joint statement released on Friday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, and the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Dare Alebiosu, the authorities rejected social media claims that the Kakanfo of Ijebuland, Chief Abimbola Okenla; the Lapoekun, Chief Tunde Odulaja; and the Madasa, Chief Lekan Oshifeso, had been suspended.
“The Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in conjunction with the Ijebu Ode Local Government, dismisses as false and misleading the report circulating on social media,” the statement read.
It emphasized that chieftaincy matters follow established laws, customs, and due process, none of which had been initiated against the named chiefs. The statement described the rumour as the handiwork of mischief makers intent on causing confusion and disharmony in Ijebuland.
The denial comes amid rising tensions over the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland following the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on July 13, 2025, after a 65-year reign. Under Ijebu rotational tradition, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is expected to nominate candidates for consideration by the kingmakers.
The process has faced delays, controversies, and petitions, prompting the state government to intervene and establish a traditional administrative body to oversee duties pending the installation of a new monarch. The body is chaired by the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Chief Folorunso Kuku, with Chief Lekan Oshifeso (Madasa)—one of the chiefs falsely rumoured to be suspended—serving as secretary. Other members include Ilamurens, Pampas, and titleholders from across Ijebuland.
A renewed nomination process, which began on January 12, 2026, was suspended again on January 20 following multiple petitions. On Friday, members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House held a peaceful protest, alleging attempts to impose a candidate on the people.
Against this backdrop, the government urged residents to remain calm and verify information through official sources, warning against spreading unverified claims that could inflame communal tensions.
“We urge the public to verify all information through official channels and not be used by those seeking to disrupt peace in Ijebuland,” the statement concluded.
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