The Fusengbuwa/Jadiara Ruling House of Ijebu Ode has elected Omooba Otukayode Hakeem Otufale as its new Olori Ebi and demanded a fresh selection process for the vacant Awujale stool, citing concerns over the conduct of the previous exercise.
The decision was reached during a gathering of elders, princes and other members of the ruling house at Ule Nla Agunsebi Hall, where participants reviewed developments surrounding the succession process for one of Yorubaland’s most revered traditional institutions.
Members of the ruling house expressed dissatisfaction with the earlier selection exercise, alleging procedural irregularities, inadequate consultation and issues relating to transparency. They argued that the process failed to fully reflect established customs and practices traditionally associated with the nomination of candidates for the throne.
Following deliberations, the ruling house elected Otufale as its new Olori Ebi, placing him in charge of coordinating family affairs and representing the interests of the house in matters relating to the vacant stool.
In his acceptance speech, Otufale pledged to promote unity among members of the family and ensure that future decisions are guided by fairness, accountability and respect for tradition.
He also raised concerns over funds allegedly collected from aspirants during the previous selection exercise, claiming that the money had neither been refunded nor properly accounted for. According to him, transparency must remain central to any process connected to the selection of a new Awujale.
“The Awujale stool is not for sale,” Otufale declared, stressing that merit, tradition and due process should determine who eventually occupies the throne.
The newly elected Olori Ebi further dissociated the ruling house from any legal action currently being pursued against the Ogun State Government regarding the succession process. He stated that the family had formally communicated its position to relevant authorities, including the government and kingmakers.
Members of the ruling house insisted that the selection process should begin afresh from the family level in accordance with established customs. They argued that restarting the exercise would help restore confidence in the process and ensure broader acceptance of the eventual outcome.
The Awujale of Ijebuland remains one of the most influential traditional rulers in Nigeria, and succession to the stool often attracts significant public interest. The latest development is expected to add a new dimension to ongoing discussions surrounding the emergence of a new monarch for the ancient kingdom.
Observers say the position adopted by the Fusengbuwa/Jadiara Ruling House could influence future consultations among stakeholders involved in the selection process.
