The Ogun State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of the ongoing selection process to appoint the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
The directive was issued in a letter dated January 20, 2026, signed by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, and addressed to the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.
According to the letter, obtained by Naija News, the government cited security concerns and multiple petitions from security agencies and key stakeholders as reasons for halting the process.
The state described the Awujale stool as one of the most prestigious traditional positions in Yoruba land, particularly in Ogun State, and emphasised that suspending the process was necessary to protect its integrity.
“The Awujale stool is a foremost stool in Yoruba land generally, and in Ogun State particularly. The stature of the immediate past Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for sixty-five years, significantly enhanced the modern esteem and prestige of the stool,” the Commissioner stated.
Hamzat explained that the suspension was taken to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the selection process, and uphold the veneration of the stool.
He noted that the decision was in line with the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empowers the government to intervene where necessary.
“Government has had due regard to the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empower it to set aside an appointment if the Executive Council is satisfied that it is in the interest of peace, order, and good government to do so,” Hamzat said.
He added that the government acted proactively to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order.
“Given the reports at its disposal, government has elected to act immediately, without delay, in the interest of peace, order, and good government by halting the process entirely,” he said.
The Commissioner directed the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government to communicate the decision to the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, urging all stakeholders to await further directives from the state.
“The Fusengbuwa Ruling House, in particular, should be advised to await further instructions regarding the selection process,” the letter stated.
The Awujale throne became vacant following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona in 2025, after a remarkable 65-year reign.
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