{
  "id": 19969763,
  "title": "Soji Adeyemi: Awujale succession: Govt cannot abdicate its statutory responsibility",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/soji-adeyemi-awujale-succession-govt-cannot-abdicate-its-statutory",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-14T10:17:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Post Nigeria",
    "slug": "daily-post-nigeria",
    "url": "https://dailypost.ng/2026/11/14/soji-adeyemi-awujale-succession-govt-cannot-abdicate-its-statutory-responsibility/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The ongoing dispute over the selection of the next Awujale, the traditional ruler of Ijebuland, has highlighted a critical distinction between the traditional authority of the Awujale and the statutory responsibilities of the Ogun State government. This situation necessitates a clear understanding of the respective roles of the ruling house, kingmakers, and government in the process. While the Awujale and kingmakers hold their customary duties, the government is mandated by the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, to ensure compliance with the statutory framework governing the appointment and recognition of traditional rulers. It is incorrect to assume that the government's involvement equates to a role in selecting the monarch; instead, it is tasked with overseeing the process to ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to the law. The late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona's 65-year reign as Awujale elevated the institution's profile nationally and internationally, emphasizing the importance of a dignified selection process for his successor. The government's interventions, informed by petitions and concerns over peace and security, underscore the necessity of addressing procedural issues within the legal framework rather than allowing disputes to undermine the legitimacy of the outcome. Protecting the throne from commercialization and ensuring that the selection process remains free from financial and political manipulation are also paramount. The Ogun State government is not the monarch's appointer; it must refrain from imposing its preferences or substituting its judgment for the legitimate functions of the ruling house and kingmakers. However, the government must not become a passive observer either. Pursuant to the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, and applicable Chieftaincy Declaration, the government has regulatory and administrative responsibilities, including the power to approve and review the process. This regulatory role is distinct yet interconnected with the customary and kingmaking responsibilities. In challenging the government's interpretation of its statutory duties, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House has initiated legal proceedings, a legitimate constitutional avenue. Yet, it is crucial that these disputes are resolved through established legal channels rather than through anonymous publications or unsubstantiated allegations. Governor Dapo Abiodun has pledged to select a new Awujale before May 29, 2027, and this commitment should be pursued with the utmost seriousness and transparency. The government's actions must be transparent, impartial, well-documented, and firmly grounded in the law, ensuring that the selection process garners the confidence of Ijebuland and withstands judicial examination.",
  "summary": "The controversy surrounding the succession to the revered Awujale throne of Ijebuland has reached a point where the distinction between legitimate customary authority and the statutory responsibilities of government must be clearly understood. What should ordinarily be a structured process governed by tradition, established chieftaincy procedures and the laws of Ogun State is increasingly being…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}