The Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu Ode has voiced fresh frustration over the prolonged delay in appointing a new Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
Speaking on Wednesday, the family head, Chief Abdulateef Owoyemi, a former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, said the continued suspension of the selection exercise by the Ogun State Government was disappointing. The process was halted for the second time in January.
In an earlier statement issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the government explained that the suspension followed several petitions from security agencies and other interested parties.
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The selection process had previously been put on hold on December 18, 2025, over alleged procedural lapses. Following that development, members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were invited for discussions with the commissioner.
The Awujale throne became vacant in July 2025 after the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona at 91, marking the end of his 65-year reign.
At a nomination meeting held in Ijebu-Ode, 95 contenders — comprising 94 princes and one princess — from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were presented.
Owoyemi expressed worry that despite repeated appeals, the government had yet to lift the ban preventing kingmakers from completing the selection process.
He said, “We have continued to pray that God will touch the heart of the governor to allow the kingmakers to resume and carry out their constitutional duties.
“The situation is becoming more challenging by the day, and it is in everyone’s interest that the process is concluded without further delay. The people of Ijebuland are eager and cannot wait endlessly for a new Awujale.
“The aspirants are also facing mounting pressure, as many are spending heavily on consultations and engagements, while others exploit their ambitions.”
He further noted that attempts to meet with the governor had been unsuccessful, adding that both Muslim and Christian leaders in Ijebu Ode had also sought to engage him.
“We are dissatisfied with the current state of affairs. Such a critical process should not be left unresolved for too long. We appeal to the governor to lift the embargo and allow the emergence of a new Awujale before Eid-el-Kabir.
“It is possible, and we believe the governor will have a change of heart. This delay should not continue.”
When reached for comment, Hamzat simply said, “I am currently in an executive council meeting.”
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