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The race for the vacant Awujale of Ijebuland throne has taken a new turn as the Department of State Services (DSS) invited the contestants to its office while abruptly cancelling a previously scheduled meet-and-greet at the Awujale’s palace.
The directive, contained in a letter dated January 21, 2026, was addressed to key members of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, including Lateef Owoyemi, Dokun Ajidagba, and Fassy Yusuf. The letter formally notified them of the change in venue for interactions with the Awujale nominees.
“Dear Sirs, Re: Invitation of Awujale Nominees to the DSS Office and Cancellation of the Meet-and-Greet at the Aafin Awujale. We write to formally inform you that the meet-and-greet earlier scheduled for this morning at the Aafin Awujale has been cancelled. Accordingly, the Awujale nominees are hereby directed to report to the Department of State Services (DSS) office located at State Security Service (SSS) Along NTA Road, Beside the State Psychiatric Hospital, Off Igbeba Road, Ijebu-Ode,” the letter read.
The Awujale stool has remained a focal point of attention following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona in 2025. His death left a significant void in Ijebuland, prompting intense interest from several princes and princesses aspiring to occupy the paramount traditional title.
Earlier this week, the Fusengbuwa ruling house forwarded a list of eligible nominees to the kingmakers. The list included several princes and one princess deemed qualified to contest for the throne. The submission was spearheaded by the chairman of the ruling house, Mr Lateef Owoyemi, alongside principal members of the house.
The nominees were formally presented to the kingmakers through the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Olorogun Kuku, during a gathering at the Awujale’s palace in Ijebu-Ode. The presentation marked a critical stage in the selection process, aligning with traditional customs that guide the appointment of the Awujale.
According to tradition, the kingmakers are expected to deliberate thoroughly before selecting the most suitable candidate. The chosen nominee’s name will subsequently be communicated to the Ogun State Government via the Ijebu-Ode Local Government and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in accordance with statutory procedures.
At least 90 princes and one princess from the Fusengbuwa ruling house emerged as contenders for the Awujale throne during a nomination meeting held at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu-Ode. The large number of aspirants underscores the intensity of the contest and the prestige associated with the position of Awujale.
The involvement of the DSS in summoning the nominees adds a new layer to the process, raising questions about security, protocol, and the management of the selection exercise. The cancellation of the palace meet-and-greet further signals heightened attention to the proceedings and the need for controlled coordination among stakeholders.
Observers note that the Awujale stool remains one of the most significant traditional positions in Yorubaland, with the occupant wielding considerable cultural, social, and political influence. As the kingmakers prepare to make their selection, attention remains focused on the nominees, many of whom are expected to demonstrate leadership qualities and adherence to tradition.
With the DSS now directly involved, the coming days are likely to be decisive in determining the next Awujale of Ijebuland. All eyes remain on Ijebu-Ode as the selection process unfolds, with residents and stakeholders awaiting the eventual announcement of the new traditional ruler.
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