Ogun Govt Denies Endorsing Any Candidate for Awujale Stool, Threatens Prosecution
The Ogun State Government on Monday debunked reports claiming that it has anointed a particular candidate among the 95 contenders vying to become the next Awujale of Ijebuland, warning that those spreading such information risk prosecution.
Akahi News gathered that the government described the reports circulating in parts of the media and on social platforms as false, misleading, and capable of triggering tension in Ijebuland and across Ogun State.
Government Issues Strong Warning
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, issued the warning in a statement made available to journalists, stressing that the state government remains neutral and has not selected or endorsed any aspirant for the revered traditional stool.
He warned that the government would not hesitate to investigate and prosecute any individual or group found fabricating, promoting, or circulating claims suggesting that a candidate has already emerged as Awujale-elect.
Threat to Invoke Obas and Chiefs Law
Hamzat further cautioned that the state would invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against anyone parading themselves as Awujale-elect before the conclusion of the legally recognised selection process.
According to the commissioner, the deliberate spread of false information or inciting publications capable of causing disaffection, unrest, or a breach of peace would not be tolerated under any guise.
Due Process and Customary Law
In the statement, the government emphasised that the selection of the Awujale is strictly governed by customary law, established chieftaincy declarations, and the extant laws of Ogun State.
“Ogun State Government has noted with serious concern reports circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms. These reports falsely claim that a particular candidate has been selected for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland,” the statement read in part.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to due process, fairness, neutrality, and respect for the traditions and cultural heritage of Ijebuland.
Nomination Meeting Produces 95 Contestants
The warning came hours after the Fusengbuwa ruling house, the family designated to produce the next Awujale, conducted its nomination meeting. At the meeting, not fewer than 95 aspirants — comprising 94 princes and one princess — reportedly emerged as contestants for the throne.
Akahi News learnt that the nomination meeting was held at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Call for Calm and Responsible Reporting
The Ogun State Government urged members of the public to disregard unverified publications and avoid actions that could undermine peace, order, and the integrity of traditional institutions.
Hamzat also appealed to the media, opinion leaders, and stakeholders to act responsibly by verifying information through official channels, assuring the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State of the government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, justice, and cultural preservation.
The Awujale stool became vacant in July last year following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91 after a historic 65-year reign.
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