Fuji music legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has formally declared his intention to be considered for the vacant throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland, one of the most respected traditional stools in Ogun State and the entire Yoruba-speaking region. This development has generated widespread discussion across the country, especially within Ijebu communities at home and abroad.
The stool became vacant following the passing of the late Awujale, who ruled for decades and was widely regarded as one of the most influential Yoruba monarchs. The selection of a new Awujale is always a matter of significant cultural importance, as the throne carries deep historical, political and spiritual weight in Ijebu society.
KWAM 1, who is not only a prominent musician but also a cultural figure with close ties to Ijebu royalty, officially submitted his interest through a letter dated December 3, 2025. The letter was addressed to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Agunsebi Quarters, one of the recognised royal families eligible to produce the next Awujale.
In his letter, the musician highlighted that his ambition is rooted in his lineage. He said he is a direct descendant of the Oba Jadiara lineage, which forms part of the Fusengbuwa royal family.
“Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Olasunkanmi Omogbolahan Anifowoshe, MON, hereby formally notifies the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of my intention to be considered for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland, subject strictly to the provisions of Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.”
KWAM 1 stated he was born on March 3, 1957, and has “devoted over five decades to the promotion of Ijebu, Yoruba and Nigerian culture through music and cultural enterprise.”
In his submission, the artiste highlighted some of his achievements and honours, many of which were bestowed by traditional institutions.
Mayegun of Yorubaland (2020) – a title bestowed upon him in recognition of his influence in Yoruba culture.
Olori Omo-Oba and Otunba Afidipotemole of Akile Ijebu (2023) – granted to him by the late Awujale.
Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), 2022 – a national honour.
His declaration comes shortly after a controversial incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where he reportedly refused to surrender a flask believed to contain alcohol during security checks. The disagreement caused a disruption and delayed a flight.
Following the incident, KWAM 1 was briefly banned from flying in Nigeria, sparking major public debate. Surprisingly, the federal government later reversed the ban and even named him a FAAN (Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria) ambassador, a move that drew mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Despite that controversy, his ambition for the Awujale throne appears unaffected. For many of his supporters, his long contribution to Ijebu culture makes him a legitimate contender. Others, however, believe the traditional selection process will determine the rightful successor based purely on lineage and customary rules, not public popularity.
The chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Abdul Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi, confirmed receiving KWAM 1’s letter of interest. In a statement issued on Friday, he called on family members within and outside Nigeria to remain calm and allow the traditional process to unfold peacefully.
“I urge all our family members, home and abroad, to remain calm and confident. I have, within two hours of receiving the said letter addressed to me and six others by the Olori Omo Oba Akile Ijebu, sent him an appropriate response, just like I had quietly done to similar declarations of interest in the recent past.”
Owoyemi added that the ruling house is “very close to a very peaceful and joyous conclusion of the sacred and historic process,” expressing confidence that the selection of the new Awujale will be concluded “within a matter of weeks.”
The Awujale of Ijebuland is one of the oldest royal institutions in Yoruba history. The throne dates back several centuries and commands respect not only in Ogun State but across Nigeria. The Awujale plays an important role in cultural preservation, dispute resolution, and community leadership. The monarch is also a central figure during the annual Ojude Oba festival, one of the biggest cultural events in West Africa.
The selection of a new Awujale typically involves:
Screening eligible members of the ruling house
Consultations with kingmakers
Observance of Ijebu customary laws
Approval from the Ogun State Government
This process is often detailed and deliberate, ensuring that the throne goes to a rightful descendant with the qualities expected of a traditional ruler.
The news of KWAM 1’s interest has sparked debate across social media and within Ijebu circles. Some believe his global influence and deep cultural involvement make him a strong candidate. Others argue that traditional institutions should be insulated from celebrity influence.
Many Nigerians are watching closely because the Awujale throne is not only symbolic but also carries considerable cultural authority. Whoever emerges as the new monarch will play an important role in shaping the future of Ijebu culture and identity.
According to KWAM 1, the process should be concluded soon. His expectations match those of the ruling house chairman, who hinted that the final decision may be announced in the coming weeks.
