The leadership of the Osugbo Traditional Cult in Ijebu-Ode has intensified pressure on the Ogun State Government, demanding the dissolution and reconstitution of the Council of Afobajes (kingmakers) amid growing controversy surrounding the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland.
At the society’s first plenary meeting of 2026, held on Tuesday in Ijebu-Ode, Osugbo chieftains accused the existing selection framework of lacking credibility, transparency, and adherence to long-established traditional laws. They urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene decisively by appointing a fresh council that reflects integrity and proper representation of traditional institutions.
Speaking at the gathering, the Oluwo Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode, Oluwo Omobolanle Bakare, faulted the exclusion of the Osugbo Society from the succession process, describing it as a violation of the 1957 chieftaincy declaration that places the group third in Ijebu’s traditional hierarchy.
According to him, allegations of bribery and inducement currently trailing the selection process are a direct consequence of sidelining respected traditional bodies.
“If people of integrity were appointed as kingmakers, these allegations would not arise. Government must investigate those selected and not just appoint anybody. Some of those involved now are not faithful at all,” Bakare said.
The Oluwo further disclosed that a formal letter had been submitted to Governor Abiodun, urging the state to recognise the Osugbo Society as a statutory member of the Council of Afobajes, as already provided for in the traditional constitution.
“The 1957 constitution recognises the Oluwo of Ijebu-Ode as part of the Afobajes. Some people do not like this provision, and that is the root of the protest,” he added.
Commending the state government for suspending the contentious selection exercise, Bakare warned that continued agitation could have destabilised the ancient town if no action had been taken.
He also expressed shock at reports that as many as 95 individuals were shortlisted in the process, describing it as unprecedented and contrary to tradition.
“How can 95 people be presented for Awujale selection? Traditionally, two or four candidates are selected and presented to Ifa. Without Osugbo involvement, the process is incomplete,” he said.
Adding her voice, the Otu-Erelu Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode and Iyalorisa General of Akile Ijebu, Chief (Mrs.) Osoteku Alawiye, praised Governor Abiodun for dissolving the earlier committee, describing it as unsuitable for such a sensitive responsibility.
She called for the formation of a new, inclusive council of kingmakers that reflects all relevant traditional institutions, stressing that only a transparent and culturally compliant process can guarantee peace in Ijebu-Ode.
Chief Alawiye emphasised the historical stature of Ijebu-Ode, warning that any deviation from established customs in selecting its monarch could undermine unity and progress in the kingdom.
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