CITIZENS COMPASS— Ogun State Government has addressed a major allegation arising from the Nomination of candidates to fill the vacant stool of the Awujale and the Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland in Ogun State.
The social media was awash recently with different names and pictures of some ‘anointed’ candidates for the Awujale stool.
The reports were circulated prior to the January 12, 2026 Nomination meeting organised by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.
Citizens Compass reported that 95 contestants have emerged for the Awujale stool.
The circulation of the names of the‘anointed’ candidates continued after the Nomination meeting and this has caused confusion among Nigerians.
The State Government responded to the allegation in a press statement dated Monday, January 12, 2026.
The press statement by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Office of the Honourable Commissioner was titled, “Ogun State Government denies claims of an anointed candidate for the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland,”
It reads, “The Ogun State Government has noted with serious concern reports circulating on social media platforms. These reports falsely claim that a particular candidate has been selected for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
The public should note that the selection process for the Awujale is governed strictly by customary law, established chieftaincy declarations, and the extant laws of Ogun State.
“The Government remains fully committed to upholding due process, fairness, naturality, and respect for the traditions of Ijebuland.
“The Government warns that the deliberate spread of false information, misinformation, or inciting publications capable of causing tension, disaffection, or breach of the peace in Ijebuland and Ogun State will not be tolerated.
“Any individual or group found fabricating, promoting, or circulating such claims will face investigation and prosecution under the law.
“Members of the public are urged to disregard those publications and avoid actions that could undermine peace, order, and the integrity of our traditional institutions.
“The Ogun State Government calls on the media, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to act responsibly by verifying information through official channels. We assure the people of Ijebuland and Ogun State of our unwavering commitment to transparency, justice and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
“In this regard, the Government will invoke Section 23(2) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021, against anyone parading themselves as Awujale-elect before the selection process is complete.”
The press statement was signed by Mr Hamzat Ganiyu, Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Recall that 95 contestants consisting of a princess and 94 princes emerged at the nomination meeting held by the ruling house at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
In attendance at the meeting, which was presided over by the Chairman of the ruling house, Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, his deputy and vice, Prince Adedokun Ajidagba, and Prof Fassy Yusuf, respectively.
