Members of the Osugbo Society in Ijebu-Ode have formally requested Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to revamp the Council of Afobajes, the group responsible for choosing the next Awujale of Ijebuland, to ensure transparency and integrity in the selection process.
The call arose during the society's initial gathering of 2026 in Ijebu-Ode, where members expressed their dissatisfaction with the participation of individuals in the selection process without thorough vetting.
Oluwo Omobolanle Bakare, the Oluwo Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode, criticized the absence of the Osugbo Society from the selection discussions, despite the society’s established rank as third in the traditional hierarchy per the 1957 constitution.
Bakare stated that the emergence of accusations of financial wrongdoing among the kingmakers might have been avoided if individuals of unquestionable integrity had been chosen.
"I urge the government to scrutinize and confirm the qualifications of those appointed as kingmakers. It's crucial to ensure that only individuals with integrity are selected. The current appointees do not exhibit the highest degree of faithfulness," he asserted.
He further appealed to the governor to acknowledge the Osugbo Society as a vital participant in the Council of Afobajes, emphasizing that the 1957 constitution clearly notes that the Oluwo of Ijebu-Ode should be a council member.
"Historically, the Osugbo has been classified as the third group in the hierarchy. We reached out to the governor this morning to seek our inclusion in the Afobajes. Notably, the constitution recognizes the Oluwo of Ijebu-Ode as integral to the council, but this inclusion has faced resistance, prompting protests from our side," he elaborated.
The Oluwo praised the Ogun State Government for halting the selection process, remarking that growing dissension from various groups could have endangered the town's peace.
"The governor's decision was wise; without it, chaos could have ensued," he remarked.
Concerned about the unusually large number of candidates shortlisted for selection, he questioned, "It is hard to comprehend how 95 names were put forward for the Awujale position. Ideally, only two, three, or four candidates should be shortlisted for Ifa's deliberation. If the Osugbo isn't involved, the entire process is flawed. One cannot have a Council of Afobajes without the Osugbo."
Joining the appeal, the Otu-Erelu Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode and Iyalorisa General of Akile Ijebu, Chief (Mrs.) Osoteku Alawiye, commended Governor Abiodun for disbanding the prior selection committee, deeming them unfit for such a critical assignment.
Alawiye urged the governor to form a new selection body that integrates all relevant traditional institutions, including the Osugbo Society, to facilitate a selection process that is transparent, credible, and devoid of conflict.
She highlighted the significant historical heritage of Ijebu-Ode, insisting that the procedure for selecting its monarch must strictly adhere to established norms and traditional customs to ensure lasting peace and development in the region.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!