Ajuwale Stool: Protest Rocks Ijebu Ode Over Alleged Imposition

Indigenes and residents of Ijebu Ode held a protest on Friday morning, marching from the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Archway to the Ijebu Ode Local Government Headquarters to oppose what they described as attempts by “powerful interests” to influence the selection of the next Awujale.

The demonstration followed a circular issued by the Ogun State Government on January 20, 2026, which barred the kingmakers from advancing the selection of a candidate from the 95 nominees submitted by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.

Leaders of the ruling house include Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (Olori Ebi), Prince Adedokun Ajidagba (Deputy Olori Ebi), and Professor Fassy Yusuf (Vice Chairman). The circular, issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, has fueled allegations that Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration is attempting to interfere in the traditional selection process to favor a preferred candidate.

Mrs. Adenugba Obileye, who led the peaceful protest, said the march was meant to express the community’s disapproval of what she called “plots to interfere with the work of the kingmakers” and to ensure that the Awujale is selected through proper traditional procedures.

“We are here to register our displeasure and demand that the kingmakers be allowed to perform their constitutional duty without interference. The people of Ijebu will not accept any attempt to impose a candidate outside the traditional process,” Mrs. Obileye said.