Ijebu Congress Praises Ogun Government for Integrity in Choosing New Awujale

Ijebu Congress, an organization representing Ijebu individuals both locally and internationally, has voiced its strong approval of the Ogun State Government's choice to pause the current process for selecting a new Awujale of Ijebuland. The Congress characterized this decision as timely, responsible, and essential for the sake of peace, legal adherence, and upholding the integrity of the highly esteemed Awujale stool.

In a statement made under the guidance of its Chairperson, Prince Bunmi Mebude, the Congress emphasized that the Awujale stool is not simply a traditional role; it stands as a unifying emblem of the identity, heritage, and collective pride of the Ijebu community. Therefore, the honor and legitimacy of the stool should not be jeopardized by any controversies, procedural lapses, or external influences.

The Ijebu Congress applauded the Ogun State Government for taking proactive measures and operating within the framework of the law, specifically referencing the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which authorizes the government to engage in matters of traditional succession in instances where peace, order, and governance may be in jeopardy. The Congress pointed out that the government's adherence to the law fosters public trust in both traditional institutions and democratic governance.

The Congress also recognized the significance of stakeholders' petitions and reports from security agencies, emphasizing that such aspects must be taken seriously during this critical process. They noted that addressing these issues now is vital to ensuring that the future emergence of a new Awujale is widely accepted, legitimate, and devoid of unresolved disputes.

Additionally, Ijebu Congress underscored that the decision to pause the selection process acts as a safeguard against coercion, undue influence, and external pressures that could undermine the selection's credibility. The intervention should be viewed as a protective measure rather than an intrusion into tradition.

The Congress urged all sons and daughters of Ijebuland, within Nigeria and abroad, as well as all stakeholders, to remain calm, law-abiding, and supportive of the ongoing process while they await further guidance from the authorities, for the overall benefit of peace and unity in Ijebuland.