The Keregbetu family of Ijebu-Ode has formally petitioned President Bola Tinubu, expressing concern over what it described as the prolonged suspension of the selection process for a new Awujale of Ijebuland.
The Ogun State government had earlier put the process on hold, citing an influx of petitions from security agencies and other stakeholders.
The Awujale throne became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at 91 after 65 years on the throne.
A total of 95 aspirants, 94 princes and one princess, from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House had emerged during a nomination meeting in Ijebu-Ode.
However, Adegboyega Olowu, head of the Keregbetu family, urged the President to intervene and prevail on Governor Dapo Abiodun to immediately lift the suspension, allowing the kingmakers to complete the process without further delay.
Olowu expressed concern over the latest developments in Ijebu-Ode, highlighting that the suspension had caused widespread anxiety and stalled the installation of a new Awujale.
Describing the Awujale stool as “a symbol of cultural heritage and a pillar of peace and socio-economic stability in Ogun State and beyond,” the family warned that the ongoing impasse could lead to tension and instability within the ancient kingdom.
The family further alleged that one of the aspirants had begun presenting himself as Awujale-elect without completing the traditional selection process.
He said, “As members of the ruling house to produce the next Awujale and critical stakeholders, we are compelled to draw your attention to the current delay surrounding the selection process.
“This development is illegal and capable of causing a breakdown of law and order in the kingdom. Such actions must not be allowed.”
Olowu revealed that over 500 members of the Keregbetu family and Fusengbuwa Ruling House met on February 22, 2026, and resolved to make what he described as a third “urgent appeal” to the President on the matter.
According to him, the suspension has intensified apprehension, particularly with the Ileya (Eid-el-Kabir) festival and the globally acclaimed Ojude Oba Festival approaching.
He cautioned that failing to install a new Awujale before the Ileya festival could jeopardize this year’s Ojude Oba Festival, a major cultural event that attracts indigenes from the Diaspora and tourists from across the globe.
The family concluded, “We humbly appeal to Your Excellency to use your good offices to prevail on Governor Abiodun to lift the suspension and allow the kingmakers to resume their constitutional duty in a lawful, transparent and fair manner.”
