Prince Adenuga Stakes Royal Claim to Awujale Throne

Prince Adekunle Olufemi Adefolahan Dada Adenuga has formally staked his claim to the vacant Awujale stool of Ijebuland, invoking his direct lineage from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, which holds the traditional turn for succession after the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona in July 2025. ​ As grandson of Oba Theophilus Adenuga Tunwase (reigned 1925-1929), great-grandson of Oba Adesimbo Aboki Tunwase (1886-1895), and great-great-grandson of Oba Fusengbuwa (1790-1820), he positions himself as a pure bloodline heir, emphasizing primogeniture in Ijebu custom. ​

In a statement rich with reverence, Adenuga describes kingship as a “divine privileged appointment” rather than an entitled reward, humbly seeking God’s favor while pledging unwavering discipline, devotion, and patriotism to Ijebu traditions and people. ​ He invokes the Yoruba invocation “Ori gbogbo alade Fusengbuwa, a gbe eni o – Ase,” underscoring his obsession with the betterment of Ijebuland. ​ This claim aligns with ongoing efforts by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, where Adenuga serves as secretary, to present a qualified candidate amid debates over eligibility and rotation order. ​

The succession race has intensified, with the ruling house rejecting distant relatives or impostors and insisting on tradition, as seen in recent gatherings of its eight branches. ​ Other contenders, including musician K1 De Ultimate and Otunba Dr. Adekunle Hassan—now head of the house—have also declared interest, highlighting a competitive yet cautious process rooted in Ijebu’s abidagba customs and family records. ​ As kingmakers prepare, Adenuga’s bold assertion adds to the narrative of heritage, unity, and divine will shaping Ijebuland’s next chapter. ​

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