Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, met with Awujale Chiefs-in-Council, expressing confidence that the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland will be transparent and rancour-free.
The throne became vacant following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, after a reign that spanned over 65 years.
Speaking after a meeting with members of the Chiefs-in-Council in Iperu, Abiodun said it was imperative that Ijebuland install a new monarch without delay, noting that “nature abhors a vacuum.”
He assured that his administration would support any candidate presented by the kingmakers at the end of the process.
“Nature abhors a vacuum, and the process of installing another Awujale has started. That was also what we discussed.
“The pathway to having in place a regency is the pathway to ensuring that all the i’s are dotted and t’s crossed, and that all the processes enshrined in the Laws of Ijebuland are strictly followed.
“I must say that all of us agreed that we are on the same page, and I think this will put paid to all the rumours that have been agog about one thing or another,” the governor stated.
Abiodun expressed confidence that the process would be rancour-free, stressing that all contenders for the exalted stool would be given equal opportunity.
He described members of the Awujale Council as respectable personalities who contributed to the success of the late monarch’s reign by maintaining peace in the land.
Speaking further, the governor explained why the meeting with the Chiefs-in-Council was delayed.
“I had to first of all wait for the 40 days to come and go before calling this meeting because all of us have been in mourning.
“I think what is most important is the fact that they are all deeply committed and dedicated chiefs of the Awujale, and I appreciate them.
“This is my first meeting with them to commiserate with them on the passing of our revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and also to assure them that despite the rumours that have been ongoing, I have absolute confidence in them.
“The Council is intact, with no disharmony among them. There is no pluralisation; they are all working hand in hand with each other, and I am happy with today’s meeting, and I thank them.”
Also speaking, the Olootu Olowa and Deputy Chairman of the Council, Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, reaffirmed the commitment of the Chiefs-in-Council to peace and unity in Ijebuland.
He said, “We will continue to work together as one body to maintain peace and progress in Ijebuland. Our resolve remains strong, and our duty is to ensure the continued stability of the land.”
