Prince Adegboyega Hanifata Olowu, Olori Ebi of Keregbetu in Ijebuland, has cautioned the Ogun State Government to refrain from meddling in the selection of the next Awujale of Ijebuland, describing the process as a strictly traditional affair.

Speaking with members of the Ijebu Elites Club on Monday in his office in Ijebu Ode, Prince Olowu expressed concern over the growing politicisation of Obaship succession, warning that government interference could erode cultural authenticity and potentially spark unrest in the community.

“The selection of the Awujale is fundamentally a traditional matter and should remain free from political influence,” Olowu stressed, noting that Ijebu Ode has well-established customs governing the institution. He reminded stakeholders that the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was a custodian of the Awujale stool, not the institution itself, which has endured for centuries.

Prince Olowu provided historical context, recalling that before Oba Adetona ascended the throne, the Ifa oracle was consulted, initially selecting Baba Barber as a candidate. However, prominent Ijebu elites, including Pa Odutola, Chief Okunowo, and Pa Shonibare, sought the advice of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who reportedly opposed installing an illiterate monarch, citing the example of the educated Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi. Consequently, Baba Barber and his brother were ruled out, leading to the selection of Oba Adetona, who had recently returned from overseas studies.

Olowu also highlighted the royal lineage structure in Ijebu Ode, noting four ruling houses recognized by government gazette, many interconnected through marriages with noble families such as Aromolade, Osinusi, Odutola, Anifata Olowu, Arigbabu, Adesoye, and Arowolo. As head of the Keregbetu family, he said he is closely monitoring developments surrounding the Awujale selection.

In his closing remarks, Prince Olowu urged the Ogun State Government to respect traditional hierarchies, stressing that political intrusion could trigger tensions in Ijebuland. He prayed for peace, stability, and prosperity in the community, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large.

The warning from Prince Olowu comes at a critical time as Ijebuland anticipates the succession of its revered monarch, highlighting the delicate balance between tradition and modern governance in Nigerian communities.