In Ijebu-Ode, the Keregbetu family has petitioned President Bola Tinubu over the prolonged suspension of the process to select a new Awujale of Ijebuland.
The appeal followed the decision of the Ogun State Government to halt the selection process, citing numerous petitions from security agencies and other concerned parties.
The Awujale throne became vacant in July 2025 after the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who died at the age of 91 after ruling for 65 years.
At a nomination meeting held in Ijebu-Ode, 95 candidates—94 princes and one princess—from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were presented as eligible aspirants for the throne.
In a statement, the head of the Keregbetu family, Adegboyega Olowu, urged the President to intervene and ask Governor Dapo Abiodun to lift the suspension and allow kingmakers to complete the selection process without further delay.
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Olowu said the continued suspension had created uncertainty and concern among residents of Ijebuland, preventing the installation of a new Awujale. He described the Awujale throne as an important symbol of cultural identity, peace, and stability in Ogun State and beyond, warning that the delay could lead to unrest if not resolved quickly.
He also alleged that one of the aspirants had begun presenting himself as the Awujale-elect without completing the required traditional selection procedures, describing the development as unlawful and potentially disruptive.
According to him, more than 500 members of the Keregbetu family and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House met on February 22, 2026, and agreed to make a third urgent appeal to the President.
The family expressed concern that the continued delay could affect preparations for major cultural events, including the Ileya (Eid-el-Kabir) celebration and the internationally recognised Ojude Oba Festival, which attracts indigenes and tourists from around the world.
They appealed to the President to use his authority to encourage the state government to lift the suspension and allow kingmakers to carry out their duty in a lawful, transparent, and fair manner.
