Ogun Government Debunks ‘Awujale-Elect’ Claims, Warns Against False Information Amid Succession Process
By Oludare Joshua
The Ogun State Government has strongly debunked reports circulating across sections of the media and social platforms alleging that a particular individual has already been selected as the next Awujale of Ijebuland.
In an official statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, described the claims as false, misleading and capable of inciting tension within Ijebuland and the state at large.
Hamzat emphasized that the government has not endorsed or selected any candidate among the 95 aspirants currently contesting for the revered Awujale stool, warning that any person or group found fabricating, promoting or circulating such unverified information would face prosecution under relevant laws.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the government would not hesitate to invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against any individual parading themselves as “Awujale-elect” before the conclusion of the legally stipulated selection process.
The warning follows the recent nomination meeting conducted by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House — the ruling house constitutionally mandated to produce the next Awujale — where a total of 95 aspirants, comprising 94 princes and one princess, emerged as contestants for the prestigious throne.
Expressing concern over the deliberate spread of misinformation, Hamzat cautioned that any publication capable of causing unrest, disaffection or breach of public peace in Ijebuland and Ogun State would not be tolerated.
“Ogun State Government has noted with serious concern reports circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms falsely claiming that a particular candidate has been selected for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland,” he stated.
He urged members of the public to refrain from actions that could undermine peace, order and the integrity of traditional institutions, while also calling on media practitioners, opinion leaders and stakeholders to verify information strictly through official government channels.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to transparency and fairness, Hamzat assured the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State that due process would be followed in the selection of the next Awujale, in line with established laws and cultural traditions.
“We assure the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State of our unwavering commitment to transparency, justice and the preservation of our cultural heritage. Accordingly, the Government will invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against anyone parading themselves as Awujale-elect before the selection process is completed,” he added.
