The head of Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu Ode, Abdulateef Owoyemi, has appealed to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to lift the government-imposed embargo on the Awujale selection process, urging that the kingmakers be allowed to complete their work.
Owoyemi, a former president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, said the indefinite suspension has frustrated the royal family and sons and daughters of Ijebu land, both locally and in the diaspora. He stressed that the kingmakers are “men of integrity” who would not sell the throne, and called for the process to be concluded before the upcoming Ojude Oba festival during Eid-el-Kabir.
The state government halted the selection last month, citing petitions from security agencies and stakeholders. A statement by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ganiyu Hamzat clarified that rumors claiming government endorsement of Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye via the Ifa oracle were false. The government reiterated that the process will follow established laws, procedures, and traditional customs.
The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years. During a recent nomination meeting, 95 candidates, including 94 princes and one princess from Fusengbuwa ruling house, were nominated, and the selection process was about to begin when it was suspended.
Ademorin Aliu Kuye denies claims
Kuye, a federal lawmaker representing Somolu Federal Constituency, denied ever presenting himself as the Awujale-elect. He also distanced himself from a viral song reportedly produced in his praise, suggesting it may have been created by detractors.
The Fusengbuwa ruling house had accused Kuye of illegal self-promotion, warning that his actions violated Ijebuland and Ogun State chieftaincy laws and could create unrest.
Kuye rejected the allegations, emphasizing his commitment to lawful conduct:
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He was not desperate to become Awujale.
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His family bought the nomination form on his behalf, which he did not initially fill.
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He had no knowledge of, nor commissioned, the viral song.
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He highlighted his long public service record as a lawmaker and lawyer of 37 years.
Kuye stated, “The claims are baseless. I am part of the Fusengbuwa ruling house and fully support the government’s position on the selection process.”
The ruling house continues to urge the government to lift the suspension so that a new Awujale can be installed without further delay.
