The Ogun State Government has stopped the ongoing process to select a new Awujale of Ijebuland, directing all parties involved to suspend further actions. The decision was communicated through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, in a letter addressed to the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government.

According to the state government, the move followed the receipt of several petitions, as well as reports from security agencies and other stakeholders concerning the selection exercise. Authorities said the halt was necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order, protect the integrity of the process, and preserve the respect attached to the revered Awujale stool.

The government explained that its action was guided by provisions of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs’ Law, which empowers it to suspend or set aside a selection process if it is considered necessary in the interest of peace, order, and good governance. As a result, the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were instructed to pause the process and await further directives.

The Awujale stool became vacant in July following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91 after a remarkable 65-year reign. The state government assured stakeholders that it would continue to act responsibly to ensure a peaceful, lawful, and widely accepted selection process when the exercise eventually resumes.