The Ogun State Government has directed the immediate suspension of the ongoing selection process for a new Awujale of Ijebuland.
It cited concerns over public order, security, and the integrity of the revered traditional stool.
It conveyed the directive in an official letter dated January 20, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and addressed to the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.
The letter, signed by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, quoted the state government to have disclosed that it had received several petitions, alongside reports from security agencies and other key stakeholders, concerning the ongoing selection exercise.
According to the government, the Awujale stool occupies a foremost position in Yorubaland and is one of the paramount traditional stools in Ogun State.
The letter noted that the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, whose reign lasted 65 years, significantly elevated the prestige and modern relevance of the throne, thereby placing heightened public attention and scrutiny on the process of selecting his successor.
The government said it had become imperative to halt the process in order to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the selection exercise, and preserve the sanctity of the Awujale stool.
The decision was taken in line with the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empowers the Executive Council to set aside an appointment where it is deemed necessary in the interest of peace, order, and good governance.
“Given the reports at its disposal, the government has elected to act proactively without further delay by halting the process in its entirety,” the letter stated.
The Local Government has been directed to immediately convey the government’s decision to the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.
The ruling house was advised to await further directives from the state government regarding the selection process.