The Ogun State Government on Monday debunked reports circulating that it has anointed a particular candidate among the 95 people jostling to become the next Awujale of Ijebu land.
The government warned that it will not hesitate to prosecute any individual or group found fabricating, promoting, or circulating such claims under relevant laws.
It also threatened to invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, a
gainst anyone parading themselves as Awujale-elect before the selection process is complete.The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, issued the warning in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.
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The warning came hours after the Fusengbuwa ruling house, the family designated to produce the next Awujale, conducted its nomination meeting, during which 95 contestants—94 princes and a princess—emerged for the throne.
Hamzat cautioned that the deliberate spread of false information, misinformation, or inciting publications capable of causing tension, disaffection, or breach of the peace in Ijebuland and Ogun State will not be tolerated.
The statement partly reads, “Ogun State Government has noted with serious concern reports circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms.
“These reports falsely claim that a particular candidate has been selected for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
“The public should note that the selection process for the Awujale is governed strictly by customary law, established chieftaincy declarations, and the extant laws of Ogun State.”
The government added that it remains fully committed to upholding due process, fairness, neutrality, and respect for the traditions of Ijebuland.
“The Government warns that the deliberate spread of false information, misinformation, or inciting publications capable of causing tension, disaffection, or breach of the peace in Ijebuland and Ogun State will not be tolerated.
“Any individual or group found fabricating, promoting, or circulating such claims will face investigation and prosecution under the law,” it said.
The government urged members of the public to disregard these publications and avoid actions that could undermine peace, order, and the integrity of traditional institutions.
Hamzat also called on the media, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to act responsibly by verifying information through official channels.
He added, “We assure the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State of our unwavering commitment to transparency, justice, and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
“In this regard, the Government will invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against anyone parading themselves as Awujale-elect before the selection process is complete.”
Recall that the Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu Ode on Monday held the family nomination meeting for the vacant stool of Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebu land.
Not fewer than 95 people—94 princes and a princess—emerged as contestants at the nomination meeting held at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The Awujale stool became vacant in July last year following the demise of 91-year-old Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years.
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