The Regent Head of Ijebu-Ode and Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Olorogun Sonny Kuku, has assured residents that the process of selecting a new Awujale will resume peacefully and conclude without rancour, despite the temporary suspension ordered by the Ogun State Government.
Speaking amid growing speculation over the halt of the nomination process involving more than 90 aspirants, Kuku dismissed claims of government interference, stressing that the state government is equally committed to ensuring a calm and orderly outcome.
According to him, the kingmakers are currently engaged in consultations with the government to understand the reasons behind the suspension and to resolve the matter swiftly.
“We have a very onerous responsibility before us. We are confident that the government is interested in a peaceful outcome. We are consulting with them, and we believe that something positive will happen soon,” Kuku said.
He clarified that the government does not participate in the kingmakers’ deliberations and has no direct influence over their decisions.
“The government does not sit with the kingmakers during deliberations. In situations like this, rumours are inevitable, but we try to separate facts from speculation. If there were any attempt at imposition, we would not hesitate to inform the public. That has not happened,” he stated.
Addressing concerns over the barricading of the Awujale’s palace by security agencies, Kuku explained that the action should not be misconstrued as an attempt to influence the process.
“The palace is a symbol of the people. By barricading it, the authorities are simply making it clear that the process is temporarily in abeyance. There is no physical or emotional conflict taking place, and our goal remains peace,” he added.
Kuku revealed that between 86 and 95 names were submitted by ruling families, although only about 86 applications were deemed valid due to incomplete documentation. He noted that the kingmakers had already commenced scrutiny before receiving official notice of the suspension.
“Once the kingmakers begin their work, everything happens within that enclave. We are careful not to say anything that could bias the situation,” he said.
Reacting to claims that the government acted based on petitions from stakeholders and security agencies, Kuku said no such petitions had been forwarded to the kingmakers.
“If petitions exist, they should be shared with us. We have not received any, which is why we are consulting with the government. Once discussions are concluded, we will brief the public. There is nothing to worry about,” he assured.
Emphasising the gravity of the task before them, Kuku said the kingmakers are determined to select the best candidate for the revered stool.
“This is a delicate responsibility. Our decision can affect the lives of the people for centuries. We have not slept for five days, scrutinising over 1,200 documents linked to about 95 applications. If we were biased, we would not be putting in this level of effort,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the commitment of the kingmakers to transparency, peace, and the emergence of a leader who truly represents the aspirations of the people of Ijebuland.
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