The Ogun State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of the succession process for the Awujale of Ijebuland, citing rising concerns over public order, security reports, and the need to preserve the integrity of the revered traditional stool.

The directive was issued in a letter dated January 21, 2026, and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiu Hamzat, instructing that all activities related to the selection of a new Awujale be halted until further notice. The decision follows the receipt of multiple petitions and reports from security agencies and other key stakeholders involved in the process.

Although normal activities continued at the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday, no succession-related engagements were held, in compliance with the government’s order.

In the letter, the state government explained that halting the process was necessary to maintain public peace, protect the credibility of the selection exercise, and uphold the sanctity and veneration of the Awujale stool. The government also referenced provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empower the Executive Council to set aside or halt an appointment if it is deemed necessary in the interest of peace, order, and good governance.

According to the government, acting proactively at this stage was considered the most responsible course of action, given the reports available to authorities. The directive further instructed that the decision be formally communicated to the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, with the latter advised to await further guidance from the state before taking any steps regarding the succession.

The Awujale stool has remained vacant since July 2025, following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91 after a historic 65-year reign. Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s longest-serving and most influential traditional rulers, his passing marked the end of an era in Ijebuland.

The state government’s intervention underscores the sensitivity surrounding the succession and signals a determination to ensure that the eventual selection process proceeds in a manner that guarantees peace, legitimacy, and broad public acceptance.