Almost a year after the passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Ilamuren Council of Kingmakers, under the leadership of the Olisa of Ijebu-Ode, Rasheed Adeoye Adesanya, has endorsed five princes as candidates for the revered stool.
Oba Adetona passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, bringing to an end a remarkable 65-year reign. He ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, at just 25 years old.
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In a letter addressed to Dapo Abiodun and personally signed by the Olisa, the kingmakers stated that the nominations were made in accordance with Section 4(2) of the Chiefs Law of 1957 and the customary regulations governing the selection and succession process for the Awujale of Ijebuland.
The five nominees submitted for consideration are Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye, Prince Isiaq Ayodele Adewale Adekoya (Eleruja), Prince Onabanjo Abimbola John, Prince Oluwaseun Waheed Omopenu Onanuga, and Prince Olabode Onanuga.
According to the Olisa, several meetings of the Ilamuren-in-Council were convened to deliberate on the process and identify suitable candidates for the vacant throne.
He explained that the traditional declaration guiding the succession process requires the kingmakers either to unanimously select a candidate or submit a list of preferred contenders to the state government for a final decision.
“The Declaration provides that all kingmakers must either agree on a single candidate or forward their preferred candidates to the State Government for consideration. In line with this provision, we have submitted the names of five princes for the government’s choice,” the letter stated.
The Olisa noted that the relevant declaration made under Section 4(2) of the Chiefs Law 1957, alongside the customary provisions regulating succession to the Awujale stool, was attached to the correspondence.
He added that the recommendations were made after considering the broader interests of Ijebu-Ode, compliance with Ogun State’s chieftaincy laws, and the need to ensure a smooth nomination process.
According to him, the shortlisted princes possess the character, experience, and background necessary to further elevate the status of the Awujale institution and contribute meaningfully to the development of Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.
The letter concluded with prayers for continued progress and prosperity for the government and people of Ogun State, as well as lasting greatness for Ijebuland.
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