Ogun State Government Suspends Awujale Nomination Process Over Security Concerns

The Ogun State Government has postponed and suspended the nomination of candidates for the Awujale throne, citing security concerns.

However, it’s alleged that the real intention is to influence the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to approve Dr. Hassan, a candidate backed by the governor and Professor Fassy Yusuf. Historical records confirm Dr. Hassan is not from Ijebu or the Fusengbuwa Ruling House lineages, sparking concerns about the government’s motives.

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House elders are accused of allowing government interference by welcoming Fassy Yusuf and Dr. Kunle Hassan, who lack ties to the ruling house. Fassy Yusuf, now a Vice Chairman, allegedly downplayed the move as a way to avoid legal issues and ensure a seamless Awujale election. This has sparked worries about outside control and manipulation within the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.

The Ogun State Government allegedly interfered with the Fusengbuwa Ruling House’s traditional structure, creating new positions to further its interests. This move bypasses the traditional Olori Ebi title and disregards the ruling house’s autonomy and the traditional role of the Awujale of Ijebuland Ruling Houses-in-Council. Meanwhile, Fassy Yusuf is accused of deceiving the Ruling House, hiding his true intentions.

The Owoyemi and Ajidagba factions insist on upholding tradition, emphasizing that only descendants of the eight Fusengbuwa lineages can become Awujale. The government’s plan involves doing everything possible leading to Dr. Kunle Hassan’s announcement as Awujale, potentially sidelining rightful heir to the throne.

The Governor and majorly Christian kingmakers are reportedly backing Dr. Kunle Hassan, a Christian from Ilesha, allegedly due to their shared faith and church affiliation. The concern is that his Christian background, combined with his Muslim surname, might shield the government’s plan from scrutiny by the Ijebu Muslim community. Historically, religion has not played a role in selecting the Awujale, making this development unusual.

The situation within the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is complex, with allegations of corruption and division. Otunba Lateef Owoyemi and Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba, influential elders, are reportedly at odds, with some claiming they have been outmaneuvered.

The ruling house is divided, with members backing different candidates, including female descendants, over the qualified male candidate, Abidaagba, who’s allegedly being overlooked due to his lack of financial generosity. Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba is accused of accepting bribes from candidates, complicating the situation.

The Ogun State Government is allegedly exploiting these divisions to push through Dr. Hassan Kunle as Awujale, despite concerns about his eligibility.