Confusion has deepened in Ijebu-Ode over the rightful occupant of the Jaginrin chieftaincy title, a position that must be filled before the installation of a new Awujale. The Interregnum Committee constituted by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has officially recognized Chief Balogun Adegoke Olaoye as the legitimate Jaginrin, insisting that all traditional rites have been completed and the title properly conferred.
Sources confirmed that Olaoye underwent the full process—seclusion, traditional rites, and public presentation—culminating in his celebration at the palace on Tuesday. Members of the Interregnum Committee and the Olisa of Ijebu-Ode, Oba Rasheed Adeoye Adesanya, were reportedly in attendance, and the confirmation letter bearing the Olisa’s signature was issued to him.
However, a parallel claim has emerged from Otunba Ayo Osisanya, who is currently observing his seclusion at his family residence in Idele, Oyingbo. Osisanya insists that he is the authentic Jaginrin based on an affirmation letter he says was signed by the same Olisa and addressed to his family’s Olori Ebi, dated November 17, 2025.
The letter, obtained by our correspondent, confirms his selection “in accordance with the Chiefs Law governing the succession to the Awujale of Ijebu-Land Chieftaincy,” and states that his name has been recommended to the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Chairman for official recognition.
Speaking from his seclusion ground, Osisanya said he followed due process and remains confident in his legitimacy:
“I am old enough to know my rights within my family. I cannot jump protocols. Everything was done properly. I remain the authentic Jaginrin of Ijebu-Ode by the affirmation of the Olisa.”
But the Chief Kakanfo of Awujale, Abimbola Okenla, has dismissed the possibility of having two Jaginrin. According to him, only Balogun Adegoke Olaoye is recognized by both the Interregnum Committee and the traditional authorities empowered to oversee the transition.
He advised Osisanya to step down, warning that non-compliance would render him inactive:
“If he continues, he will not be recognized by the government, will not be paid, and will have no functions to perform.”
Okenla affirmed that the three offices needed for the installation of a new Awujale has been filled; the Mogeesu, the Apebi and the Jaginrin and all three will be sworn in on Friday.
Efforts are ongoing to obtain clarification from the Olisa and the head of the Interregnum Committee, as the community awaits an official statement to resolve the conflict.
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