The Baamofin of Ijebuland and renowned legal practitioner, Barrister AbdulWasiu Oduwole, has urged the Ogun State Government and Ijebu-Ode kingmakers to strictly adhere to the laws guiding the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland. He also cautioned against any form of corruption or political interference in the sensitive succession process.
Oduwole made the appeal while speaking with journalists at his Degun office in Ijebu-Ode, stressing that history would remember the roles of every stakeholder involved.
He explained that the Chiefs Law of 1957 remains the governing instrument for the ascension to the Awujale throne, providing for rotation among the four ruling houses and recognizing both male and female lines. He expressed confidence in the integrity of the Ijebu-Ode kingmakers, describing them as reputable individuals capable of delivering a lawful and transparent process.
Commending the Fusengbuwa ruling house, Oduwole noted that the family had so far conducted themselves with dignity as the succession process formally begins. He encouraged them to maintain decorum and cooperate fully with the kingmakers.
According to him, the arrival of the staff of office to the family signifies the official commencement of the succession process. He explained that tradition requires the ruling house to work closely with the kingmakers to present an eligible candidate to the government for final approval.
Oduwole emphasized that the law is flexible and allows consideration of the female line if no qualified candidate emerges from the male lineage, noting that legitimacy within the ruling house—not gender—is the determining factor.
“The rotational structure has been in place since 1957, and the declaration clearly outlines the procedure. Everything must be done strictly in line with the law, the declaration, and the customs relating to the ascension of an Awujale,” he said.
He further disclosed that he recently handed over archival documents entrusted to him in 1995 by the late Prince Adebisi Obanlefa, former Olori Ebi of the Fusengbuwa family. The documents, he noted, contain valuable historical records on the ruling houses and the structure of succession.
Oduwole reiterated his warning to the kingmakers to avoid corruption, stressing that no “moneybag” should be allowed to influence the process.
“For the government, I urge neutrality. The government must not influence or interfere. And to the contestants, I wish them all well,” he added.
