New Awujale: Abiodun Tasks Kingmakers To Ensure Level Playing Ground For Contestants, Sets Up Interim Administrative Body

IPERU-REMO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has tasked the Awujale Chiefs in Council to ensure a level playing ground in the process of appointing a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

The stool of the Awujale became vacant when Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona joined his ancestors on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91 after reigning for over 65 years.

Speaking after a meeting with members of the Awujale Chiefs in Council at Iperu, Governor Abiodun noted that it is imperative for the people of Ijebuland to have a new Awujale as soon as possible, as “nature abhors a vacuum.”

He assured the people of Ijebuland that his administration would support any candidate presented by the kingmakers at the end of the nomination process.

“Nature abhors a vacuum, and the process of installing another Awujale has started. That was also what we discussed.

“The pathway to having in place a regency is the pathway to ensuring that all the i’s are dotted and t’s crossed, and to ensure that all the processes which are enshrined in the Laws of Ijebuland are strictly followed.

“I must say that all of us agreed that we are on the same page, and I think this will put paid to all the rumours that have been agog about one thing or another,” the governor stated.

Governor Abiodun expressed the hope that the process would be rancour-free, as those who would be lining up for the exalted position would be given equal opportunity.

He described members of the Awujale Council as respectable personalities who contributed to the successful reign of the late Awujale by maintaining peace in the land.

“I had to first of all wait for the 40 days to come and go before calling this meeting because all of us have been in mourning. I think what is most important is the fact that they are all deeply committed and dedicated chiefs of the Awujale, and I appreciate them.

“This is my first meeting with them to commiserate with them on the passing of our revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and also to assure them that despite the rumours that have been ongoing, I have absolute confidence in them.

“The Council is intact, with no disharmony among them. There is no pluralization; they are all working hand in glove with each other, and I am happy with today’s meeting, and I thank them,” the governor concluded.

Also speaking, the Olootu Olowa and Deputy Chairman of the Council, Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, stressed the resolve of the Council to continue its peace-building duties, just as he assured that members would continue to unite and work as a team for the peace and progress of Ijebuland.

In another development, the Ogun State Government has officially established an interim administrative body to oversee both administrative and traditional affairs in Ijebu Ode during the transition period pending the installation of a new Awujale.

This development was confirmed in a press release signed and circulated by Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

According to the statement, the appointment of members to the administrative body aligns with Ijebu Ode’s long-standing traditional and historical governance framework.

The appointed members are as follows:

i. Chief Folorunso Sunny Kuku (Ilamuren) – Chairman

ii. Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso (Madassa) – Secretary

iii. Chief Stepehen Bakare Oluwalogbon (Ilamuren) – Member

iv. Chief Bisola Oluneye Okuboyejo (Ilamuren) – Member

v. Chief Funmilola Okunowo (Ilamuren) – Member

vi. Prof. Jide Ajayi (Ilamuren) – Member

vii. Chief Tunde Odulaja (Pampa) – Member

viii. Chief Abimbola Okenla (Pampa) – Member

ix. Chief Agboola Alausa (Pampa) – Member

x. Chief (Mrs.) Adebisi Oshibogun (Pampa) – Member

xi. Chief Adebisi Adaran (Gbeden) (Ogbogeni Odi) – Member

The Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, reiterated the commitment of government to ensuring stability, continuity, and respect for the cherished traditions of Ijebu Ode during this transition period.

The State Government therefore calls on all sons and daughters of Ijebuland, both at home and in the diaspora, to extend their unflinching support to the constituted Administrative body, as this is a collective responsibility, and the cooperation of all stakeholders is crucial in safeguarding the peace, harmony, and unity that Ijebu land is known for.

The people are further urged to remain law-abiding, peaceful and support the ongoing process, as government remains resolute in its commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and the preservation of our cultural heritage.