Ogun State Govt Suspends Awujale Selection Process Till Further Notice
Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
The Ogun State Government has directed an immediate suspension of the ongoing process for the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland.
This directive was contained in an official letter dated January 20, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and addressed to the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.
According to the letter, the decision follows several petitions and security reports received from relevant agencies and key stakeholders concerning the selection process. The government noted that the Awujale stool remains one of the most revered traditional institutions in Yorubaland, further elevated by the late Awujale, Oba Dr Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years.
The state government explained that halting the process is necessary to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the stool, and ensure peace, security, and good governance in Ijebuland.
Citing provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, the government emphasized its authority to set aside or suspend traditional appointments when it is deemed to be in the public interest.
Consequently, the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government has been directed to convene the Awujale Kingmakers’ Council and inform the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to suspend all actions related to the selection process until further notice.
The directive was signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat.
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Ademola Busayo 
Ayo Marvel 