Ogun Government Denies Suspending Ijebu Chiefs, Issues Strong Warning Over Fake News

The Ogun State Government and Ijebu Ode Local Government have denied reports claiming that three prominent Ijebu traditional chiefs were suspended from the Ijebu Council of Chiefs, describing the rumours as false, misleading, and potentially capable of stirring unrest.

In a joint statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, and Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman, Dare Alebiosu, the authorities dismissed social media claims that the Kakanfo of Ijebuland, Chief Abimbola Okenla; the Lapoekun, Chief Tunde Odulaja; and the Madasa, Chief Lekan Oshifeso, had been suspended.

“The Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in conjunction with the Ijebu Ode Local Government, has rejected as false and misleading a report circulating online. Chieftaincy matters follow established laws, customs, and due process, none of which has been applied to the named chiefs,” the statement read.

The statement described the rumours as the work of mischief-makers intent on creating confusion and disharmony, urging the public to rely on official channels for accurate information.

The denial comes amid tensions surrounding the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland following the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on July 13, 2025, after a 65-year reign. By rotational tradition, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is expected to nominate candidates for the kingmakers’ consideration, but the process has faced delays, controversies, and petitions, prompting repeated government interventions.

Meanwhile, a temporary traditional administrative body has been overseeing duties pending the installation of a new monarch. The body is chaired by the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Chief Folorunso Kuku, with Chief Lekan Oshifeso (Madasa)—one of the chiefs falsely rumoured to be suspended—serving as secretary. Other members include Ilamurens, Pampas, and various titleholders across Ijebuland.

A fresh nomination process, which began on January 12, 2026, was again suspended on January 20 following a wave of petitions. On Friday, members of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House held a peaceful protest, alleging attempts to impose a candidate on the people.

Against this backdrop, the government and local authorities urged residents to remain calm and cautioned against spreading unverified reports that could inflame communal tensions.

“We urge the public to verify all information through official sources and avoid being used by those seeking to disrupt peace in Ijebuland,” the statement concluded.