Prince Olaseni Oyeniyi Ottun, a young Ijebu royal, seasoned banker, and business strategist, has formally declared his interest in ascending the revered Awujale of Ijebuland throne. He hails from the Adeberu lineage of the Fusengbuwa ruling house in Igboburo, Ijebu-Ode, and joins the contest following the announcement that his ruling house is next in line to produce the successor to the late Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona of the Anikilaya house.
Prince Ottun’s declaration has sparked excitement across Ijebuland, with many describing him as a promising blend of youth, discipline, and progressive leadership. His professional journey spans Zenith Bank, Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank), and the Petroleum Equalisation Fund under NNPC Limited—where he earned repeated commendations for excellence, integrity, and commitment.
At 45, Prince Olaseni Ottun brings over two decades of experience in banking, consulting, operations, and corporate leadership. Beyond his corporate accomplishments, he is widely recognised for his contributions to community empowerment and development initiatives across Nigeria—qualities many believe make him a strong candidate for the revered stool.
Speaking with journalists in Ijebu-Ode, Prince Ottun pledged to prioritize the development of Ijebuland if entrusted with the throne, emphasizing that “there is no place like home.” He called for forward-looking traditional leadership that preserves heritage while embracing innovation, adding that the youth bring essential energy and fresh thinking needed to sustain Ijebu’s legacy of excellence.
Describing Ijebuland as “one of Africa’s most civilized, dignified, and industrious societies,” he highlighted the cultural prestige of the kingdom and the responsibility that comes with the Awujale title. He praised the outstanding leadership of the late Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne at a young age and led with vision for more than six decades.
Prince Ottun reaffirmed his adherence to the 1957 Western State Chieftaincy Declaration guiding the rotation of the Awujale throne among the Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote ruling houses. He stressed that integrity, wisdom, and courage remain essential qualities for whoever emerges as the next Awujale.
“Leadership is not just about authority—it is about influence, vision, compassion, and the ability to inspire. The Awujale stool represents honour, tradition, and responsibility, and these are the values that guide my interest,” he said.
ABOUT PRINCE OLASENI OTTUN
Born in August 1980, Prince Olaseni Ottun is the Executive Director of Sally Tibbot Consulting Limited and a respected figure in Nigeria’s corporate landscape. His career began at KPMG in 2001 before moving to the Petroleum Equalisation Fund in 2002, where he served until 2006. His banking career includes impactful roles at Zenith Bank and Bank PHB/Keystone Bank between 2006 and 2013.
Since joining Sally Tibbot Consulting in 2013, his leadership has grown the firm significantly, earning him a position on the boards of seven reputable companies, including:
- Sally Tibbot Consulting Limited
- Flips Limited
- BOT Engineers Limited
- Riverdale Financial Services Ltd
- Smarbo Engineering Limited
- CV Banc Limited
- S.R. Ottun’s Stores
His expertise spans commercial banking, operations management, fintech integration, and electronic banking systems.
A PRINCE OF PURPOSE AND COMPASSION
Prince Ottun is known for his humility, clarity of thought, and empathy. Those close to him describe him as a modern leader who balances tradition with innovation—an embodiment of Ijebu heritage and forward-looking leadership.
Driven by a genuine desire to uplift his people, Prince Ottun stands out as a symbol of hope for a new generation—calm, principled, and committed to service. Supporters believe his reign, if ordained, would blend the wisdom of tradition with the dynamism of modern leadership.
As Ijebuland prepares for its next chapter, Prince Olaseni Ottun emerges as one of the notable figures ready to guide the kingdom with honour, vision, and heart.
