By Akinwale Kasali
The selection process of the new Awujale of Ijebuland is getting messier by the day as a section of protesters has thrown their weight behind the suspension of the selection process by the Ogun State Government.
A group of oncerned Ijebu Residents under the aegis of Ijebu Sons and Daughters and Ijebu-Ode Progressive Youths, had staged a peaceful protest, as they marched through major roads in the ancient town, displaying placards with bold inscriptions such as: “Awujale stool is not for sale”. “Governor Abiodun, save Ijebuland from crisis”. “We want the best Prince as Awujale” and “Let there be a free and fair selection process.”
The protesters had converged at the Awujale Palace Road and proceeded to the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat, to air their grievances to the Executive Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government in person of Hon. Dare Adebiosu.
Addressing the mammoth crowd of protesters, Hon. Adebiosu assured that the Ogun State Government has no preferred candidate, and explained that the suspension was aimed solely to ensure strict adherence to due process.
“The government is not interested in imposing the Awujale on the people.
“The decision to suspend the process was taken to ensure fairness and transparency in the selection process”, he said.
He commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct and assured them that the process would resume, leading to the emergence of an Awujale who would reflect the will of the people.
Babatunde Salami, the Leader of the Group said that the demonstration was intended to send a clear message to the kingmakers to act responsibly, and not engage in corrupt practice, as information is rife that they are being induced.
“The Awujale stool is highly respected in Yorubaland, Nigeria, and even beyond. This is not a position that should be treated casually. We want the kingmakers to choose the right person for our land”, he said.
In the same vein, another Leader of the Group, Yusuf Adetilewa, expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as rumours of bribery and corruption surrounding the selection process.
“We are here to insist that due process must be followed. We do not want moneybags to hijack the process and render it meaningless”, he said.
Another protester, Morolayo Oyesefo also called for equal treatment of all contestants, noting that holding a traditional title should not be used as a basis for disqualification.
“We have heard allegations of bribery involving both contestants and those conducting the selection.
“The Government must punish anyone found guilty. We do not want the process compromised, as this could lead to unnecessary litigation”, she said.
Following the suspension of the selection process by the Ogun State Government last week, the Alagemos in Ijebuland have thrown their support behind the actions of the Ogun State Government, stating that the suspension is aimed at ensuring a seamless selection process.
High Chief Tajudeen Adekunle Muili, the Alapini Awopa General of Ogun State, who spoke after a meeting held at the palace of the Ija-Oloko of Imosan expressed confidence in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s handling of the matter.
“I do not believe the suspension was done for the governor to impose his will. Rather, it is to ensure that due process is followed. We appreciate the steps taken so far and only urge that the process be expedited”, Chief Muili said.
Corroborating Muili, the Gbosa and Baale of Imosan, High Chief Wahab Samsideen Adebayo, said the suspension would allow kingmakers to properly conclude the process by giving all contestants equal opportunity.
“The Funsengbuwa Ruling House has submitted the list of candidates. The kingmakers should now sit down and complete the process transparently.
“All we want is an Awujale who will promote peace and progress in Ijebuland, not one who will oppress the people”, he added.
The Awujale Stool has been a major debate following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who joined his forebears last year.
The selection process has been marred with controversy, with some of the Candidates from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House alleging conspiracy on the part of the Kingmakers on who becomes the next Awujale, prompting the Ogun State Government to wade in.
There are, though, speculations and allegations that Governor Abiodun has an interest in one of the selected Candidates for the exalted Awujale Stool.
But the allegations has been debunked by the Media Office of the Governor, which stated fairplay, transparency and assured that the selection will follow due process.
Observers are, however, waiting patiently for the Ogun State Government to lift the suspension in the selection of the new Awujale, and, for due process to be followed by the Kingmakers.
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