The process to select the next Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland has officially begun, following clearance from the Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs through the Ijebu Ode Local Government.

In line with the directive, the Fusengbuwa ruling house—next in line to produce the revered monarch—has fixed Monday, January 12, 2026, for the commencement of its internal selection process.

Confirming the development in a statement, the chairman of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, Otunba Abdul-Lateef Owoyemi, disclosed that the nomination exercise will take place at Bisrod Hall, GRA, off Igbeba Road, Ijebu-Ode, starting at 12 noon.

Owoyemi explained that the ruling house received a formal letter from the Ijebu Ode Local Government, mandating it to begin its internal selection process within 14 days of notification, in strict compliance with the customary laws of Ijebuland and the chieftaincy regulations of Ogun State.

According to the letter dated January 6, 2026, the ruling house is also required to formally notify the local government of the date, time, and venue of the exercise, while representatives of the council are expected to attend strictly as observers to ensure due process.

“This approval is issued to facilitate due process and remains without prejudice to the traditional rights and internal procedures of the ruling house,” the statement quoted from the official correspondence.

The directive, conveyed through the Secretary of the Ijebu Ode Local Government, Hon. Oke Abiodun Adebayo, further instructed the Fusengbuwa ruling house to invite designated council officials to monitor the nomination process.

The development marks a significant step in the journey toward filling the vacant Awujale stool, a position of immense cultural, historical, and traditional importance in Ijebuland. As the process unfolds, all eyes will be on the Fusengbuwa ruling house to conduct a transparent and orderly selection in keeping with long-standing tradition and statutory guidelines.