The Ogun State Government has announced an indefinite suspension of the nomination process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland, citing security concerns just as the Fusengbuwa Ruling House was set to select candidates. This unexpected halt, disclosed on December 10, 2025, has sparked new allegations of political interference, with traditionalists asserting that the decision serves to protect a predetermined candidate: Dr. Adetona Kunle Hassan, a physician from Ilesha in Osun State, who reportedly has no direct connections to Ijebu’s royal lineages.
Historical precedents dictate that only male descendants from the eight Fusengbuwa lineages—descended from Prince Fusengbuwa, the son of the first Awujale, Lenuwa—are eligible to ascend the throne. Critics, including elders from the Owoyemi and Ajidagba factions, contend that Dr. Hassan’s outsider status disqualifies him completely. “This is a subversion of our customs,” declared Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, an influential figure in the ruling house, during a statement to journalists. Nevertheless, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration seems to support Hassan, reportedly facilitated by Professor Fassy Yusuf, Vice Chairman of the Ijebu Traditional Council.
Government Interference and Created Positions
Professor Yusuf’s recent engagement with the Fusengbuwa elders has faced significant criticism. He characterized these discussions as a precaution against legal challenges, asserting they are intended to guarantee a “hitch-free” selection in accordance with the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law. Critics accuse him of minimizing the underlying motives, which include the establishment of new roles within the ruling house that marginalize the traditional Olori Ebi (family head) and the Awujale Ruling Houses-in-Council.
Insiders suggest that these actions are designed to garner support for Hassan in anticipation of any eventual resumption. The government’s suspension letter, signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, cited “threats to lives and property” stemming from intra-house conflicts—altercations that reportedly escalated following factional meetings on December 8.
Factional Divisions, Bribery Allegations, and Religious Tensions
The Fusengbuwa Ruling House is rife with deep divisions. Otunba Owoyemi and Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba, once allies, now find themselves leading rival factions. Ajidagba faces allegations of accepting bribes from aspiring candidates, while some members advocate for female descendants or less favored males over frontrunners like the Ajidagba lineage’s preferred candidate.
Adding to the controversy, Hassan’s Christian faith—connected to shared church affiliations with the predominantly Christian governor and some kingmakers—has emerged as a contentious issue. Despite his Muslim-sounding surname, opponents express concern that it creates a façade of balance, shielding the selection from Ijebu Muslims. Historically, tradition has remained independent of religion; previous Awujales like Oba Sikiru Adetona represented Ijebu unity across faiths.
While no charges have been filed, the rift threatens to lead to legal disputes, reminiscent of past chieftaincy conflicts in Ogun. As Ijebuland observes closely, the government’s involvement raises critical questions: Is this an effort to protect tradition or an imposition of an anointed outsider?
