Professor Bankole Okuwa, has called on the Ogun State Government to guard against outside interference and ensure that only legitimate heirs from the recognised royal lineage are considered.
Okuwa, who served in the Ogun State House of Assembly during Chief Bisi Onabanjo’s administration, made the appeal on Thursday during an interactive session with journalists at his Ijebu-Ode residence.
Now Curator of the Oba Adesimbo Tunwase Museum, the U.S.–based academic and retired U.S. Department of Defense staffer described any attempt to “buy” the revered throne of the Awujale as an affront to Ijebu heritage.
He urged kingmakers to uphold integrity and allow the Ifa oracle to guide the selection of the rightful candidate, warning that some individuals who have long been absent from family activities are suddenly identifying with the Fusengbuwa ruling house following the passing of the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
According to Okuwa, the Fusengbuwa ruling house must follow tradition and present a candidate selected through proper consultation.
“I know the Fusengbuwa family very well. Meetings were held at Agbusebi Quarters, and I expect them to present the best candidate. I’ve noticed that some people who haven’t shown up for years are now resurfacing. Regardless, the family must do what’s right for the community,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the stool—traditionally associated with strong, principled leaders—would once again produce a candidate who embodies the dignity of Ijebuland.
Okuwa also warned against rumours of political involvement in the process, saying no outsider should impose a candidate on the Ijebu people.
“Our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is competent. I believe he will act in the best interest of Ijebus. But anyone seeking the throne must first present himself to his family. No one can impose himself on us,” he said.
Condemning alleged financial inducements, he described attempts to sway kingmakers with money or gifts as “unacceptable.”
“The Awujale stool cannot be bought. It would be an insult to all Ijebus. Those working elsewhere should return home and present themselves to their family instead of using political connections from outside,” he added.
Referencing the selection of the current Ooni of Ife, Okuwa emphasised the importance of tradition, stressing that the Ifa oracle should similarly guide the process in Ijebuland.
He also suggested an ideal age bracket of 45 to 60 for candidates, noting that although Oba Adetona ascended the throne at 26, modern realities make maturity and experience essential.
“With about 48 people reportedly picking up forms, the question is how to identify the most suitable. Age 45 to 60 is ideal; beyond 60 raises other considerations,” he noted.
Okuwa appealed to all stakeholders, from royal families to government authorities, to safeguard the sanctity of the selection process.
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