A significant development has emerged from Ijebuland as no fewer than 95 princes and princesses from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House have officially declared interest in ascending the revered Awujale of Ijebuland stool. This major announcement was made by the Olori Ebi of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Lateef Owoyemi, during the opening session of a nomination meeting held at the Bisi Rodipe Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode. The gathering marked the formal commencement of the traditional selection process for the next Awujale. Owoyemi, who is also widely recognized by his traditional title Otunba Jadiara, addressed members of the ruling house and stakeholders present at the meeting. He confirmed that all interested princes and princesses had submitted themselves for consideration in line with customary procedures. Several prominent figures within the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were in attendance to witness the process. Among them were the Deputy Olori Ebi, Otunba Ajidagba, the Chairman, Chief Fassy Yusuf, and other respected leaders of the family. During his remarks, Otunba Owoyemi explained that the selection process would proceed in stages. According to him, only candidates who successfully scale the initial screening stage would advance further. The names of those qualified would then be formally submitted to the Afobajes, the traditional kingmakers vested with the authority to choose the next Awujale. He further clarified that the Afobajes would deliberate and eventually select one candidate from the shortlisted names. Once a decision is reached, the chosen candidate’s name would be forwarded to the Ogun State Government for final ratification, in accordance with established tradition and state procedures. Otunba Owoyemi also addressed potential concerns, noting that any individual dissatisfied with the conduct or outcome of the exercise has the right to officially lodge complaints through appropriate channels to the government. The expression of interest by such a large number of eligible royals underscores the importance and prestige of the Awujale stool, as well as the deep cultural heritage associated with the leadership of Ijebuland.
