Residents of Ijebu-Ode on Monday staged a peaceful demonstration across major parts of the town in support of the Ogun State Government’s suspension of the selection process for a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

Organised under the banners of Ijebu Sons and Daughters and Ijebu-Ode Progressive Youths, the protesters marched through key streets carrying placards with messages such as: “Awujale stool is not for sale,” “Governor Abiodun, save Ijebuland from crisis,” and “Let there be a free and fair selection process.” The procession culminated at the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat, where Chairman Hon. Dare Adebiosu addressed the crowd.

Hon. Adebiosu reassured residents that the Ogun State Government has no preferred candidate, emphasizing that the suspension was intended to ensure strict adherence to due process. “The government is not interested in who eventually emerges as Awujale. The decision was taken to ensure fairness and transparency in the selection process,” he said.

Representatives of the protesters underscored their commitment to a credible selection. Alhaji Babatunde Salami described the Awujale stool as a position of immense respect, urging kingmakers to act responsibly. “This is not a position that should be treated casually. We want the kingmakers to choose the right person for our land,” he said.

Concerns over corruption and bribery in the selection process were also raised. Mr. Yusuf Adetilewa said, “We are here to insist that due process must be followed. We do not want moneybags to hijack the process and render it meaningless.” Similarly, Mrs. Morolayo Oyesefo called for equal treatment of all contestants, stressing that traditional titles should not be used to unfairly disqualify candidates.

The move has received backing from traditional leaders in Ijebuland. High Chief Tajudeen Adekunle Muili, Alapini Awopa General of Ogun State, expressed confidence in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s handling of the matter, stressing that the suspension was not for political interference but to ensure due process.

High Chief Wahab Samsideen Adebayo, Gbosa and Baale of Imosan, added that the pause would allow kingmakers to properly conclude the selection process, giving all candidates an equal opportunity. “All we want is an Awujale who will promote peace and progress in Ijebuland, not one who will oppress the people,” he said.

The peaceful protest and the backing from traditional authorities underscore the community’s insistence on transparency and fairness, as Ijebuland awaits the completion of the Awujale selection process.