K1 De Ultimate defends his Awujale bid, insisting on his royal lineage as debate intensifies over the Ijebu throne
Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has defended his decision to contest the vacant stool of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, insisting that his royal heritage gives him full legitimacy to join the race.
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The clarification came on Sunday in a video posted on his YouTube channel, days after he declared interest in the succession process.
K1 De Ultimate Awujale bid has drawn public attention since his formal letter to the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House dated 3 December, where he traced his ancestry to the Oba Jadiara lineage.
He said he was born a prince and was qualified under Ijebu customary law and Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
His entry widened a field that had already attracted prominent contenders, including Prince Olaseni Ottun of the Adeberu lineage and businessman Otunba Babatunde Alatise.
In his video statement, K1 dismissed critics who questioned his eligibility. He said his family background and past recognition by the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, proved his royal status.
He noted that the late monarch installed him as the Olori Omo-Oba and Otunba Afidipotemole of Akile Ijebu in 2023, titles he described as significant endorsements.
He said the succession debate should not divide Ijebu people. He urged all princes to promote unity and avoid public conflict.
He added that the late Awujale was deliberate and thorough in his decisions and would not have conferred such titles if he lacked royal legitimacy.
K1 said he would no longer engage in public reactions about his interest.
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He emphasised that all eligible princes should work together for the progress of Ijebuland, regardless of who the kingmakers eventually select.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
