AWUJALE SUCCESSION: A CALL FOR PEACE, TRUST, AND RESPECT FOR IJEBU TRADITION
late Oba Sikiru Adetona
By Akin Alade
Speaking on the ongoing process of selecting the next Awujale of Ijebu land, Aderoye Adetunji, President of the Obanta Valiant Group, has commended the Afobajes of Ijebu land and the Ogun State Government for the wisdom, restraint, and maturity displayed throughout the exercise.
According to Aderoye Adetunji, the Afobajes deserve special praise for the painstaking and dignified manner in which they carried out their sacred responsibility. He noted that the careful selection of ten most qualified princes, all eligible to ascend the revered throne of their ancestors, reflects deep wisdom, technical competence, and spiritual guidance.
“The Afobajes did not approach this task lightly. They examined the matter thoroughly—technically, traditionally, and spiritually—before presenting the selected princes to the government. This was done without any form of interference from the Ogun State Government, a development that distinguishes Ijebu land from what is obtainable in some other states,” he said.
Aderoye Adetunji also praised Governor of Ogun State for demonstrating respect for tradition and due process, stressing that the Governor’s role was advisory and guided by the interest of peace and stability in Ijebu land. He described as misleading and unnecessary the video currently circulating on social media suggesting that the Afobajes rejected the Governor’s advice.
“We are not condemning the Afobajes; rather, we are applauding them for their diligent work. All sons and daughters of Ijebu land believe in their capacity, integrity, and commitment to our traditions,” he added.
He urged all stakeholders to allow destiny to overrule, warning against attempts by individuals driven by personal ambition to undermine the long-established culture and traditions of Ijebu land. He emphasized that the Awujale stool is sacred and must never be subjected to controversy, manipulation, or selfish interests.
Describing Ijebu land as a peaceful and loving kingdom with a rich cultural heritage known across the world, Aderoye Adetunji called for calm and unity among the people, noting that peace remains the greatest strength of the land.
On the rumors making the rounds that some Afobajes allegedly collected money or material gifts from preferred candidates, he dismissed such claims as baseless and malicious attempts to discredit respected custodians of tradition.
“I choose to believe these allegations are false. A true son of Ijebu land, entrusted with such a sacred duty, will never compromise the future of our people for material gain,” he stated.
In conclusion, Aderoye Adetunji appealed to the Afobajes and all stakeholders to sustain peace, remain focused, and allow destiny to take its rightful course in the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebu land.
