The Royals Page Editor
Tayo Latifayo
The race to succeed the revered Awujale of Ijebu Land has officially begun, as the ruling house responsible for producing the next monarch has initiated the traditional selection process. Amid heightened anticipation across Ijebuland and beyond, the royal family has made it clear that age-old customs and sacred protocols will guide every step of the succession.
In a statement released on Thursday, elders and representatives of the designated ruling house emphasized their unwavering commitment to the cultural and historical heritage of the Ijebu people. According to them, while the throne of the Awujale is one of the most respected and symbolically powerful in Yorubaland, its sanctity must not be compromised by modern-day political or external influences.
“This is not just about choosing a king—it is about preserving a lineage, a culture, and the spiritual dignity of our people,” the ruling house declared. “We will follow due process as laid down by our forebears. The rites, consultations, and qualifications are clear, and we will not deviate.”
The Awujale stool became vacant following the transition of the previous monarch, who was celebrated for his wisdom, leadership, and efforts in modernizing Ijebuland while preserving its traditions. His reign, which spanned several decades, left a legacy that set a high bar for any incoming successor.
Sources close to the selection process confirm that internal consultations have begun, with traditional kingmakers, Ifa priests, and family elders playing key roles in vetting eligible princes from within the ruling house. The process is expected to include spiritual divination, family consensus, and compliance with the Chieftaincy Laws of Ogun State.
Ijebu indigenes across Nigeria and the diaspora have expressed keen interest in the unfolding events, with many urging the ruling house to remain transparent, fair, and deeply rooted in tradition. There are also calls for patience from the public, as the selection process is often rigorous and time-consuming.
Cultural analyst and historian, Dr. Yinka Ogunbiyi, noted, “The selection of a new Awujale is not a rushed affair. It requires wisdom, guidance from the ancestors, and careful navigation of tradition. This is one of the most spiritually significant roles in Yorubaland, and the entire process reflects that depth.”
While the identity of potential candidates remains closely guarded, the ruling house assured the public that only those with impeccable character, royal lineage, and deep understanding of Ijebu heritage will be considered. They also warned against misinformation and external pressures, noting that the sanctity of the stool is paramount.
As the process moves forward, the Ijebu nation watches with hope and reverence, knowing that the next Awujale will not only serve as a king but also as a custodian of tradition, a unifying symbol, and a voice of wisdom in modern Nigeria.
