KWAM1 Awujale nomination concerns highlight alleged exclusion from the selection process as Fusengbuwa Ruling House prepares for Ijebu Ode nominations

Fuji music icon and Olori Omooba of Ijebu land, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM1, on Monday raised concerns over what he described as moves by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to exclude him from the nomination process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland.

Also read: KWAM1 withdraws suit over Awujale installation

In a letter addressed to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, KWAM1, who hails from the Fidipote Ruling House, alleged that the Fusengbuwa house had taken decisions contrary to the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021, thereby sidelining him from participation.

The concerns come ahead of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House resuming the nomination process on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Ijebu Ode, headquarters of the Ijebu Ode Local Government Area, following an initial suspension of the exercise.

Scores of princes had reportedly indicated interest in succeeding the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed on July 13, 2025, aged 91, after a 65-year reign.

KWAM1’s allegations were formally communicated through a letter dated January 8, 2026, submitted to the governor by his lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN. Prior to this, the musician had sought an interim injunction at the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu Ode to restrain Governor Abiodun and others from proceeding with the selection, but the court declined the request.

The suit was subsequently withdrawn without explanation.

In his recent letter, KWAM1 referenced a January 6, 2026, letter from the Secretary of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Mr. Oke Adebanjo, granting the Fusengbuwa Ruling House approval to commence and conclude the nomination process within 14 days.

He expressed surprise that the ruling house’s Public Relations Officer, Prince Adeleye Lateef Ademuyiwa, had issued a directive requiring candidates to collect nomination cards and appear before a screening committee.

KWAM1 described the directive as “contravening the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law, and the letter from the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government,” asserting that it appeared designed to disenfranchise members wishing to participate in nominating candidates for the Awujale stool.

He urged timely intervention to ensure due process, emphasising that all ruling house members are entitled to attend meetings to nominate candidates of their choice and that no group should usurp these rights.

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KWAM1’s appeal underscores concerns about transparency and fairness in the selection process as Ijebuland prepares for the enthronement of its next traditional ruler.