Awujale Succession: Abiodun Urges Ijebu People To Remain Calm As Selection Continues

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured residents that a new Awujale of Ijebuland will emerge before May 29, 2027, expressing confidence that the process of selecting the next traditional ruler will be concluded peacefully.

The Awujale stool has remained vacant since July 2025, following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona at the age of 91. The late monarch reigned for 65 years, making his departure a significant moment in the history and cultural heritage of Ijebuland.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Abiodun gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of various interest groups in Ogun East Senatorial District, held in Ijebu-Ode. The governor’s position was also conveyed in a statement issued by his media adviser, Kayode Akinmade.

Abiodun urged residents to remain calm and patient while the necessary procedures for selecting a successor are being completed. He stressed that his administration was giving the matter the attention it deserved to ensure that the emergence of a new Awujale would be peaceful and receive the acceptance and support of the people.

The governor acknowledged the importance of the Awujale institution to the cultural identity, heritage and unity of Ijebuland, noting that the succession process required careful handling to preserve peace and harmony within the community.

During the stakeholders’ meeting, Abiodun also explained that the gathering was organised to strengthen engagement with grassroots representatives, address community concerns and highlight his administration’s achievements over the past seven years.

He identified oil exploration around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area as major projects expected to drive economic growth in the state.

The governor further highlighted the proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, expressing optimism that it would attract investment, generate employment opportunities and strengthen Ogun State’s position in maritime trade, manufacturing and logistics.

Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and investment promotion, while appreciating President Bola Tinubu for supporting critical projects and initiatives in the state.

He also called for continued cooperation from residents and community stakeholders to sustain peace and accelerate development across Ogun State.

The emergence of a new Awujale is being closely watched by the people of Ijebuland, given the institution’s longstanding cultural and traditional significance. Abiodun’s assurance has set a target of May 29, 2027, for the conclusion of the succession process.