Ogun State Forms Administrative Body for Ijebu Ode Amid Awujale Transition

In a significant move to maintain stability and uphold tradition during a period of leadership transition in Ijebu Ode, the Ogun State Government has formally established an administrative body charged with overseeing the management of both administrative and traditional affairs until a new Awujale is installed.

This announcement, aligned with the historical governance structures of Ijebu Ode, was made official in a statement signed by Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun emphasized the administration’s unwavering commitment to the continuity, peace, and respect for the cherished cultural heritage of Ijebu land throughout this transitional period.

The constituted administrative body is chaired by Chief Folorunso Sunny Kuku, also known as Ilamuren and co-founder of EKO Hospital, Lagos. Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso (Madassa) serves as Secretary. Other members include prominent traditional titleholders such as Chief Stepehen Bakare Oluwalogbon, Chief Bisola Oluneye Okuboyejo, Chief Funmilola Okunowo, and Prof. Jide Ajayi—all Ilamurens—alongside members representing other key traditional titles like Pampa and Gbeden.

Governor Abiodun has called on all indigenes of Ijebu land, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, to offer collective support to this administrative body. He stressed that such cooperation is vital for safeguarding the unity, harmony, and peace that define Ijebu Ode. The public is also urged to remain law-abiding and peaceful as the government advances a process marked by transparency, inclusiveness, and cultural preservation.

This development follows the recent passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the revered Awujale who ruled for over six decades until his death in July 2025. The establishment of the administrative body represents a critical step by the Ogun State Government to navigate the transitional period responsibly, maintaining the revered traditions of the Ijebu Kingdom while preparing for the installation of a new Awujale.

The members of the Administrative Body are:

• Chief Folorunso Sunny Kuku (Ilamuren) – Chairman
• Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso (Madassa) – Secretary
• Chief Stepehen Bakare Oluwalogbon (Ilamuren) – Member
• Chief Bisola Oluneye Okuboyejo (Ilamuren) – Member
• Chief Funmilola Okunowo (Ilamuren) – Member
• Prof. Jide Ajayi (Ilamuren) – Member
• Chief Tunde Odulaja (Pampa) – Member
• Chief Abimbola Okenla (Pampa) – Member
• Chief Agboola Alausa (Pampa) – Member
• Chief (Mrs.) Adebisi Oshibogun (Pampa) – Member
• Chief Adebisi Adaran (Gbeden) – Member

This administrative arrangement is a collective responsibility and a testament to the Ogun State Government’s dedication to ensuring a peaceful transition, preserving Ijebu land’s rich cultural identity, and fostering broad community participation in the process.

The government remains resolute on transparency and inclusiveness as it works alongside traditional institutions to secure a future that honors the legacy of the late Awujale and the goodwill of the Ijebu people.

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Signed:
Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
Ogun State Government

This administration and stakeholders’ call for unity comes at a delicate time for Ijebu Ode as it mourns the loss of a long-serving monarch and anticipates the installation of a new traditional leader, signaling continuity of governance and cultural pride in the region .