By SUNTV Global Channel | January 13, 2026
No fewer than 94 princes and one princess from the Fusengbuwa ruling house have officially declared interest in the vacant Awujale of Ijebuland stool in Ogun State, setting the stage for one of the most competitive royal successions in recent times.
The revered stool became vacant following the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away on July 13, 2025, after a remarkable 65-year reign as Awujale.
The aspirants emerged on Monday during a nomination meeting held at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode, according to reports. The exercise marked the formal beginning of the succession process within the Fusengbuwa ruling house.
The meeting was chaired by the family head and Chairman of the ruling house, Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, with support from his deputy, Prince Adedokun Ajidagba, and the Vice Chairman, Prof. Fassy Yusuf. Officials of the Ijebu Ode Local Government, including the council’s Secretary, Abiodun Oke, attended as observers.
Among the prominent contenders are Giwa Abiodun Onanuga, husband of former Ogun State Deputy Governor Mrs Yetunde Onanuga; Dr Kunle Hassan, a renowned ophthalmologist and founder of Eyes Foundation Hospital; and Otunba Fatai Arowolo of Aron Construction.
The sole female aspirant is Princess Oluwakemi Onanuga, a legal practitioner.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Otunba Owoyemi confirmed that the nomination process was concluded peacefully and that responsibility has now shifted to the kingmakers to select the next Awujale.
“We have successfully, peacefully and harmoniously nominated 95 candidates. It is now left to the kingmakers to carry out their duty conscientiously and select one of them as the next Awujale,” he said.
Owoyemi expressed optimism that the process would be concluded soon, adding that a new Awujale is expected within the next month. He also disclosed that all aspirants had signed an agreement committing to accept the final outcome of the selection process.
As anticipation builds across Ijebuland, all eyes are now on the kingmakers to usher in the next custodian of one of Yorubaland’s most respected traditional stools.
— SUNTV Global Channel
