A coalition of traditionalists from towns and villages across Ijebuland has commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for suspending the ongoing selection process for the vacant Awujale stool.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday, January 10, 2026, at their secretariat in Ijebu-Ode, the socio-cultural group described the Governor’s intervention as timely and necessary to preserve the sanctity and integrity of the revered throne.

The group stated that the temporary suspension would provide an opportunity for critical reassessment of the process to ensure transparency, fairness and public confidence.

According to the traditionalists, the Governor’s action aligns with the provisions of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law of 2021, which empowers the government to intervene in chieftaincy matters where issues arise that could undermine due process or threaten peace and order.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Iyalorisa General of Ijebuland, Chief (Mrs.) Osoteku Alawiye, expressed confidence in the Governor’s decision, noting that the move demonstrates respect for tradition and the rule of law.

She, however, emphasised that a credible and qualified candidate from the appropriate ruling house must ultimately emerge through a transparent process.

“The Awujale stool is one of the most revered traditional institutions in Yorubaland and a paramount throne in Ogun State. It deserves the highest level of dignity and due process,” she said.

Chief Alawiye added that Governor Abiodun had refrained from interfering in the process from the outset in order to guarantee fairness and transparency, describing the suspension as a corrective step rather than undue interference.

The group also appealed to the Governor to disregard what it termed attempts by detractors to derail the process, assuring that traditional custodians across Ijebuland are closely monitoring developments to safeguard the collective interest of the people.

The Awujale stool, regarded as one of the most prominent traditional institutions in the state, has remained a focal point of attention following the vacancy, with stakeholders calling for a process that reflects tradition, legality and communal harmony.