…Says Kingmakers remain final authority despite state oversight
…..Blames delay on petitions, legal complexities, not politics
Amid growing concerns over the prolonged delay in the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland, Prince Adekunle Adenuga has reaffirmed that the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, will not impose a monarch on the people.
Speaking during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Prince Adenuga emphasized that the responsibility of choosing the next Awujale rests squarely with the Kingmakers, in line with tradition and legal provisions.
“The governor will most likely advise us, but he’s not going to choose a king for us. The king to be appointed by the governor will have been nominated by the Kingmakers,” he stated.
Process Stalled by Petitions, Not Politics
Prince Adenuga explained that the delay in the selection process stems from legal and procedural concerns rather than political interference.
The Ogun State government had halted the process in December following the submission of nominations by ruling houses, citing petitions and allegations of irregularities. Over 90 candidates were reportedly nominated—an unprecedented development in the history of the Awujale stool.
According to him, the suspension is a precautionary step aimed at avoiding prolonged litigation.
“Government took that decision in good faith… to prevent unnecessary legal battles. We believe the process will resume once the review is concluded,” he said.
Eligibility Disputes at the Core
A major source of contention, Adenuga noted, is the interpretation of eligibility under the current succession declaration.
He clarified that while candidates must originate from recognized ruling houses, stricter provisions now emphasize lineage—particularly the male line—while allowing the female line only where no eligible male exists.
“This is why we are seeing so many candidates. A grandchild can qualify, provided the lineage aligns with the declaration,” he explained.
Kingmakers Under Scrutiny
The Prince maintained confidence in the Kingmakers, despite allegations of bribery and their reported interactions with security agencies.
“I am aware they were invited, and I believe they went to clear their names. If they are people of integrity, they will not violate the law,” he said.
He added that the mere existence of petitions does not confirm wrongdoing, urging the public to avoid premature conclusions.
Family Positions and Internal Dynamics
Addressing claims of internal disputes, Adenuga revealed that while disagreements initially existed within the Folagbade lineage, the process has fostered a renewed sense of unity.
“Everybody that claimed to be family now sees themselves as one. There are plans for a general meeting to address outstanding concerns,” he disclosed.
He also clarified that his family did not submit petitions after the nomination stage, though concerns had been raised earlier to ensure only eligible candidates participated.
On Alleged ₦10m Nomination Fee
Reacting to reports that aspirants paid ₦10 million for nomination forms, Adenuga dismissed the claim as misleading.
He stated that his group did not engage in such payments, noting instead that a uniform, non-refundable fee of ₦250,000 was collected strictly for administrative purposes.
Legal Path Still Open
On the possibility of legal action, Adenuga acknowledged that aggrieved parties retain the right to seek redress in court.
“Our laws permit anyone dissatisfied with the outcome to approach the court. That provision is there,” he noted.
Hope for Resolution
As the people of Ijebuland await clarity, Adenuga appealed for patience, expressing optimism that the Ogun State government will soon lift the suspension and allow the selection process to continue.
“We should remain patient and hopeful that very soon the government will clarify the situation,” he said.
