James Sowole in Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has told the Awujale Chiefs-in-Council to ensure a fair process that gives all contenders equal chance of emergence in the choice of 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, Abiodun said it was 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.
He stated, “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.”
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.
The governor stated, “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 pluralisation; they are all working hand in glove with each other, and I am happy with today’s meeting, and I thank them.”
Also speaking, the Olootu Olowa and Deputy Chairman of the Awujale Chiefs-in-Council, Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, stressed the resolve of the council to continue its peace-building duties. Osifeso assured that members would continue to unite and work as a team for the peace and progress of Ijebuland.

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