Awujale Succession: Who Wears the Crown

The throne of the revered Awujale of Ijebuland remains vacant after the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who ruled for an impressive 65 years. Succession to the position follows a strict rule set out in the 1957 Western State Chieftaincy Declaration, rotating among four royal houses: Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote.

Adetona hailed from Anikinaiya, making Fusengbuwa the next in line. Following Fusengbuwa's opening of nominations, 95 candidates emerged, nearly all of them princes, with one royal princess, Mrs. Oluwakemi Onanuga, a legal expert, also participating. Customary law allows for a female monarch in the event no eligible male candidates are found, though this scenario appears unlikely given the sheer number of male contenders.

Once the field was narrowed down by the 13 traditional kingmakers, known as Afobaje, the Olisa, head of the kingmakers, forwarded a shortlist to the Ogun State Government in mid-2026. The names on this list included Hon. Prince Ademorin Kuye, a present-day lawmaker, and Prince Onabanjo John, a high-profile corporate figure with strong connections.

Three other princes rounded out the list. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced that a new Awujale will be chosen before May 29, 2027, marking the first time such a deadline has been set since the throne became vacant.

Speculation swirls around a proxy contest between influential political figures in Ogun and Lagos over the candidates. While specifics remain unsubstantiated, the state government retains the legal authority to pick from the shortlist. The ruling house asserts that an Ifa oracle has endorsed a particular prince from the original 95.

The kingmakers submitted five names; the government will ultimately select one. Amidst the drama, Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has launched legal challenges against the screening process. However, the ruling house rejected his objections. The process experienced a brief hiatus but has since resumed.

Unfortunately, the staff of office has yet to be appointed, leaving Ijebuland to await the crowning of its next leader.