The Keregbetu family of Ijebu-Ode, members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, and other princes and princesses have petitioned President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the stalled process for selecting a new Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State.
The group said the selection exercise was suspended and has not resumed, creating anxiety in the kingdom.
In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, February 23, 2026, and signed by the head of the Keregbetu family, Adegboyega Olowu, the ruling house urged the President to appeal to Governor Dapo Abiodun to lift the suspension of the selection process and allow the kingmakers to complete their assignment without delay.
Olowu said the delay has generated concern in Ijebu-Ode and across Ijebuland.
The statement said the suspension has resulted in uncertainty and tension and noted that the ongoing impasse could create instability if not addressed.
Olowu described the situation as a significant concern for the ancient kingdom, which traditionally relies on a clear selection process for its paramount ruler.
The stool of Awujale became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who ruled for 65 years. A total of 95 aspirants; 94 princes and one princess, from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House had emerged during a nomination meeting held in Ijebu-Ode.
The kingmakers were preparing to begin the selection process when the Ogun State Government announced a suspension, citing numerous petitions received from security agencies and other stakeholders.
The family stated that the suspension had led to irregular actions in the selection environment. It said one of the candidates had begun portraying himself publicly as Awujale-elect despite the incomplete selection process.
The petition said the candidate had also engaged a musician to produce and circulate a jingle promoting him as the new Awujale, an act the family described as unlawful and capable of causing a breakdown of law and order in the kingdom.
The statement said these developments prompted a meeting on February 22, 2026, attended by more than 500 members of the Keregbetu family and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, where members resolved to make an urgent appeal to the President.
The ruling house emphasised the importance of following the traditional selection process in a lawful, transparent, and fair manner.
It said adherence to established customs and procedures is essential for upholding the integrity of the Awujale institution and preserving peace within the kingdom.
The Ogun State Government had previously announced the suspension of the Awujale selection process for the second time, citing petitions from security agencies and other stakeholders as reasons for the action.
The state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, said the suspension was taken in the interest of peace and security.
