Ijebuland Mourns as Succession Process for Awujale Begins

Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State – The revered Ijebuland is currently undergoing a period of transition as the community mourns the peaceful departure of its paramount ruler, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who joined his ancestors on July 13, 2025. Oba Adetona’s impactful reign, spanning over 65 years, left an indelible mark on Ijebuland and beyond.

With the late monarch laid to rest, attention has now turned to the crucial role of the Awujale Kingmakers, who are charged with the sacred responsibility of selecting a worthy successor to the ancient throne. The succession process, steeped in tradition and governed by the Western State Chieftaincy Declarations of 1957, involves a rotational system among four recognized ruling houses: Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote. It is understood that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is next in line to present a candidate.

In the interim, a significant development has seen the Ogbeni Oja, Olorogun Dr. Sunny Folorunsho Kuku, a renowned medical doctor, assume the role of Acting Awujale. He will oversee the affairs of the Ijebu traditional council during this transitional period, guiding the selection process.

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The esteemed council of Kingmakers, critical to this traditional process, includes prominent figures such as:

1.The Ogbeni Oja: Olorogun Sunny Kuku, a highly successful Medical Doctor and now the Acting Awujale.

2.The Olisa: Chief Rasheed Adeoye Adesanya FCA, ACMA, a respected Chartered Accountant.

3.The Olotu Olowa: Otunba Lekan Osifeso, an astute businessman and developer known for his privileged background.

4.The Olotu Ifore: Otunba Jimi Lawal, a renowned banker credited with establishing the defunct Alpha Merchant Bank in the 1990s.

5.The Lapo Ekun: Chief Tunde Odulaja, a British-born Nigerian businessman.

6.The Balogun: Chief Agboola Alausa, a world-renowned socialite and UK-trained Estate Valuer, whose long-standing presence in society is even celebrated in Ebenezer Obey’s classic songs.

These influential individuals, among others, will meticulously follow the established customs and declarations to ensure a rightful and accepted heir emerges to lead Ijebuland into its next chapter. The community remains hopeful for a smooth and peaceful transition, upholding the rich heritage and traditions of the Ijebu people.