Osugbo Society urges Ogun State Governor to reconstitute Council of Afobajes for credible Awujale selection in Ijebu-Ode

Members of the Osugbo Society in Ijebu-Ode have urged Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun to reconstitute the Council of Afobajes to ensure transparency and credibility in the selection of a new Awujale.

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The call was made during the society’s first meeting of 2026, where members expressed concern over the involvement of individuals in the selection process without proper background checks.

Speaking at the gathering, the Oluwo Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode, Oluwo Omobolanle Bakare, criticised the exclusion of the Osugbo Society from the process, noting its position as third in the traditional hierarchy under the 1957 Constitution.

He warned that allegations of financial inducement among kingmakers could have been avoided if appointments had been carefully made.

“I want the government to investigate and verify the conduct of those who will serve as kingmakers. They should not appoint just anybody, but people with integrity,” Mr Bakare said.

He appealed to the governor to formally recognise the Osugbo Society as part of the Council of Afobajes, as stipulated in the 1957 constitution.

The Oluwo praised the government for suspending the selection process, citing concerns that rising agitations from various quarters could have disrupted peace in the town.

He also criticised the large number of candidates reportedly shortlisted, describing it as unwieldy.

“I cannot understand how 95 people were presented for the Awujale selection. They should have picked two, three, or four candidates and presented them to Ifa. Once the Osugbo is not involved, the process is incomplete. Without the Osugbo, there is no Council of Afobajes,” he said.

Chief Alawiye Osoteku, Otu-Erelu Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode and Iyalorisa-General of Akile Ijebu, commended the governor for dissolving the previous selection committee.

She urged the appointment of a fresh set of kingmakers that would include all relevant traditional institutions to ensure an inclusive and crisis-free process.

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Chief Alawiye stressed the historical importance of Ijebu-Ode, emphasising that the selection of its monarch must follow due process and traditional rites to guarantee peace and progress.