The Fusengbuwa ruling house, which is next in line to produce the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, has officially kicked off the selection process, emphasizing the importance of upholding Ijebu traditions. The head of the ruling house, Adedokun Ajidagba, disclosed this during the beating of Gbedu drums, a significant cultural tradition that signals the intention to present a candidate for the Awujale stool.
The late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, after a 65-year reign. He was buried on Monday at his private residence in Ijebu Ode, in accordance with Islamic rites. The burial was attended by Governor Dapo Abiodun, who noted that it was the deceased Awujale’s wish to be buried according to Islamic injunctions.
However, the burial has sparked controversy, with traditionalists arguing that the late monarch should have been buried according to Ijebu land’s traditions.
The state recently passed a bill titled “Obas, Chiefs, Council of Obas and Traditional Council law of Ogun State, Bill 2021,” aimed at respecting human dignity and promoting modernity in the installation and burial of traditional rulers.
Speaking on Thursday, Ajidagba warned that the successor must be ready to uphold Ijebu’s revered traditions. “To my family members, whoever is eventually selected as the next Awujale must not discard Isese, which we call tradition, because that is what will make the town develop,” he said.
Ajidagba also called on the government to stay away from interfering with the selection process, stating, “As for the state government, we have written to them to steer clear of the process leading to the selection of the next Awujale. They should allow the natural process to run its course.”
Ajidagba emphasized that the family would resist the imposition of wealthy individuals or politicians. “The late Awujale, during his lifetime, warned that the next Awujale should not be a case of money bags, or a billionaire, or a politician,” he added. He also stated that the family was prepared to present a qualified and worthy candidate from among its princes, calling for unity and support in the selection process.
Prince Adeleke Adeyemi, the General Secretary for both the four ruling houses and the Fusengbuwa family, said he had maintained accurate family records for over 20 years.
“It is our right and responsibility to present a qualified and respected prince with a strong background,” he noted. Adeyemi praised the leadership of Prince Ajidagba and affirmed that the family remained united in its mission.
The Olowa of Ijebu-Ode and Abore of Awujale, Chief Razaq Osimodi, supported the actions taken by the Fusengbuwa family, stating that the Gbedu ceremony had long been the tradition that identified the rightful family to produce the next Awujale. “I fully support the actions taken by the leaders of the Fusengbuwa family. While there are many interested candidates, only one will emerge, and the Ifa oracle will guide the family in making that decision,” he said.
The selection process is expected to be guided by the Ifa oracle, ensuring that the next Awujale is chosen in accordance with Ijebu’s cultural and traditional practices.
