Abiodun Ogidan, the spokesperson for the Fusengbuwa Royal House, has expressed that the ongoing selection process for the new Awujale of Ijebuland must not be compromised by political interference, monetary inducements, or intimidation. He firmly stated that this distinguished position embodies a revered traditional institution that should strictly adhere to established customs and practices.
In a discussion with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, Ogidan warned that any attempts to sway the selection of the upcoming paramount ruler through financial means or coercive tactics would constitute a significant breach of Ijebu tradition and undermine the integrity of the Awujale's office.
"The Awujale stool is a revered traditional institution whose selection must follow the customs and traditions passed down through generations," Ogidan asserted. "Neither financial inducements nor intimidation should sway the appointment of the next Awujale of Ijebuland."
Ogidan linked the escalating protests and public unrest surrounding the succession process to a mix of misinformation and a lack of understanding regarding the proper selection procedures.
"There is widespread misinformation and insufficient information available," he noted. "For many of those protesting, their actions stem from this lack of understanding. The royal family chose to remain silent to observe the situation unfold."
He addressed the concerns regarding the unusually large number of candidates, estimated to be between 95 and 100, by clarifying that the extended interval since the Fusengbuwa ruling house last produced an Awujale has resulted in a growing pool of suitable candidates spanning multiple generations.
"One hundred years is a considerable span," he explained. "Children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren have expanded the family tree, resulting in numerous eligible candidates today."
Ogidan clarified that the candidate screening process is conducted exclusively by the royal family in alignment with the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law, rather than by the kingmakers.
"All documents from candidates were thoroughly screened by the family," he stated. "They were secured in the presence of the DSS and police, padlocked, and subsequently delivered to the palace for the kingmakers’ review."
He refuted claims that the Fusengbuwa family was splintered, stating that previous internal disputes had been reconciled.
"Initially, there were three factions, but we have unified as one family now," he confirmed. "There are no factions remaining."
Regarding the regulatory timelines established under the 2022 Chieftaincy Law, he mentioned that after reconciling the family, restarting the screening was not feasible due to time constraints.
"Upon receipt of the local government's notification, we had 14 days to act," he explained. "It was impractical to restart the screening for nearly 100 candidates, so we harmonized existing applications."
In response to claims that candidates were required to pay ₦10 million, Ogidan admitted that initial discussions concerning contributions for logistical purposes took place but confirmed that this requirement was eventually retracted.
"All individuals who paid were reimbursed," he affirmed. "It was not a prerequisite for participation, and the refunds can be verified."
He emphasized that the royal family opposes corruption and inducements while also making a distinction between bribery and culturally appropriate gestures.
"We do not condone bribery or coercive inducements," Ogidan declared. "However, it is customary in our culture for someone to present a gift to an elder. What we reject is anything aimed at manipulating the selection process."
Ogidan also expressed disapproval regarding the suspension of palace activities, labeling it as culturally unacceptable.
"Locking the palace gate is an unacceptable act in Ijebu land," he stated. "The palace functions like a marketplace; closing it limits public access and contravenes tradition."
In response to claims made by one candidate regarding exclusion from the list, Ogidan stated that documentation would determine eligibility.
"If someone has submitted their documents, they must be included on the list," he clarified. "Any discrepancies in spelling or name variations can be corrected during the interview stage."
He asserted that the ultimate decision does not solely rest with the family or the kingmakers.
"No candidate can be chosen and forced upon us," Ogidan emphasized. "The selection process includes interviews, adherence to traditional criteria, and formal approval from the government."
Ogidan concluded by urging the Ogun State Government to permit the kingmakers to fulfill their obligations without interference.
"The primary concern is for the government to grant the Afobajes the freedom to execute their responsibilities," he stated. "If the established protocols are allowed to proceed without obstruction, the transition will be smooth and legitimate."
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