A total of 95 princes and princesses from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House have formally expressed interest in ascending the Awujale stool of Ijebuland, following the recent vacancy in the traditional office.
The development was announced by Olori Ebi of Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Lateef Owoyemi, also known as Otunba Jadiara, at the commencement of a nomination meeting held at Bisi Rodipe Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode.
Other senior members of the ruling house, including Deputy Olori Ebi Otunba Ajidagba and Chairman Chief Fassy Yusuf, were also in attendance.
Otunba Owoyemi explained that the nomination exercise is the first stage in selecting the next Awujale.
He noted that the names of candidates who successfully pass the initial screening will be forwarded to the Afobajes, the traditional kingmakers, who will evaluate the aspirants and select one individual as the next Awujale.
The choice of the Afobajes will subsequently be submitted to the Ogun State Government for official recognition.
Speaking to the gathering, Otunba Owoyemi emphasised that any member of the ruling house or community dissatisfied with the nomination process could channel their grievances through the proper government channels, ensuring transparency and adherence to established procedures.
The Awujale stool, one of the most prominent traditional titles in Ijebuland, has long been a symbol of cultural heritage, leadership, and influence in Ogun State.
The selection process typically attracts keen interest from members of the royal families, given the stool’s historical and political significance.
With 95 aspirants now officially expressing interest, the next few weeks are expected to witness careful deliberations, rigorous scrutiny, and consultation among kingmakers to determine the most suitable candidate to assume the revered position.
The announcement has already sparked widespread discussions within the community, with many awaiting updates on the shortlist and eventual selection of the new Awujale.
