Tension surrounding the succession to the Awujale of Ijebuland took a new turn on Monday as members of the Fusengbuwa ruling family staged a peaceful protest in Ijebu Ode, calling on the Ogun State Government to respect due process in the selection of a new monarch.

The protesters, who marched in large numbers to the Ijebu Ode Local Government Secretariat in Itoro, accused the government of alleged interference in the traditional succession process. The peaceful demonstration began at the Odo-Egbon Roundabout, passed through Awujale Palace/Itale Road, and terminated at the council secretariat.

Addressing the demonstrators, the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu, appealed for calm and assured the protesters that their concerns would be forwarded to Governor Dapo Abiodun. While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, the chairman warned against any attempt by hoodlums to hijack the exercise and disrupt public order.

“I have listened to your grievances regarding the Awujale stool, and I assure you that I will convey all your requests to Governor Dapo Abiodun,” Alebiosu said, urging the protesters to return home peacefully and remain law-abiding.

He also dismissed claims that the Awujale Palace remained under lock, disclosing that the palace had since been reopened.

Speaking during the protest, High Chief Adekunle Talabi, Priest of the Alagemo Masquerade, said traditional institutions, including the Osugbo, were united in their call for the government to allow established customs to guide the installation process. He stressed that the Afobajes must be permitted to perform their constitutional role in selecting a suitable candidate for the revered stool.

Representing the ruling house, Mrs. Adejugba Obileye said the protest was organised to oppose any alleged plan to impose a successor and to demand respect for the sanctity of the Awujale stool.

“We reject any form of imposition. The Awujale stool is sacred, and the proper process must be followed,” she said.

Another member of the ruling house, Mr. Olubunmi Adesanya, echoed the call, urging the government to allow the kingmakers and the Ifa oracle to carry out their duties without interference.

As the succession debate continues, the protest underscored growing concerns among traditional stakeholders over the integrity of the Awujale selection process, even as local authorities moved to douse tensions and maintain peace in Ijebu Ode.