Awujale Succession: Jadiara Royal House Challenges Alleged Three-Candidate Consensus

The Jadiara Royal House, a member of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu-Ode, has challenged a report by Ikokore Reporters which purportedly presented Bode Onanuga, Bimbo Onabanjo and Folu Aderibigbe as the three candidates for consultation for the vacant Awujale stool.

In a press statement dated August 10, 2026, and signed by Otunba Prince Akinola Odedina DBA, FCA, Oloriebi, Jadiara Royal House, the royal house described the publication as misleading and baseless.

The royal house maintained that Ikokore Reporters has no traditional, statutory or customary authority to determine candidates for the Awujale stool, stressing that the selection process must be conducted by the appropriate traditional and statutory institutions.

It also categorically rejected the reported three-candidate consensus, declaring that no such consensus exists.

According to the statement, only the ruling house, kingmakers and other relevant institutions can determine qualified aspirants in accordance with the customs and laws governing the Awujale succession.

The Jadiara Royal House further insisted that due process must be followed, saying all qualified aspirants should be assessed on the basis of tradition and law rather than through media campaigns.

It also rejected what it described as conspiracy allegations aimed at weakening the Awujale institution, urging those making such claims to provide evidence rather than rely on speculation.

The royal house called for fairness in media coverage of the succession process, particularly in the treatment of other aspirants. It cited the mention of Ademorin Kuye in what it described as a dismissive and denigrating manner, urging Ikokore Reporters to maintain a level playing field and avoid biased reporting.

It further appealed to journalists, bloggers and members of the public to depend on official communications and avoid circulating unverified reports that could cause unnecessary tension and division.

On the role of the Ogun State Government, the royal house urged the government to perform its responsibilities transparently and without pressure, stressing that it should be allowed to discharge its role in accordance with the law.

The Jadiara Royal House reaffirmed its commitment to peace and the dignity of the Awujale institution, declaring that its ultimate objective is the lawful emergence of a new Awujale who enjoys the confidence of the people of Ijebuland.

The statement adds to the growing public discourse surrounding the succession process and the emergence of the next Awujale of Ijebuland.