The process of selecting the next Awujale of Ijebuland has taken a new turn as the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, has directed popular Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), to complete the royal lineage data form required for all contenders. The ruling house said the step is necessary to establish his legitimate membership before he can participate in the selection process.
The Awujale stool, one of the most respected traditional titles in Nigeria, became vacant following the recent transition of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who reigned for more than six decades. His passing marked the beginning of a closely watched succession process, especially given the cultural weight of the Awujale throne in Yoruba land and Nigeria as a whole.
KWAM 1, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s entertainment scene and a globally recognised Fuji icon, formally declared his interest in the throne in a letter dated December 3, 2025. The letter, addressed to the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Alhaji Abdulateef Owoyemi, quickly went viral on social media, sparking mixed reactions from the public.
In the letter, the musician described himself as a “bonafide son” of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House. He stated that his intention to contest for the throne was backed by Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
However, the ruling house insists that, like every other contender, KWAM 1 must first establish his genealogy. Owoyemi, who is also a former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), explained that no aspirant—regardless of public status—would be allowed to proceed without proving legitimate royal ancestry.
Speaking on Saturday, Owoyemi said the royal lineage data form requires applicants to trace their genealogy up to seven generations. The form must include details of parents, grandparents, and earlier ancestors who link the applicant to the Fusengbuwa ruling house.
“The first step for anyone interested in contesting for the Awujale throne is to declare their lineage by filling the standard Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form,” he said. “Once confirmed as a legitimate member of the ruling house, they can then apply for the expression of interest form.”
Owoyemi also noted that the Olori Omooba of Ijebuland has already been instructed to complete the form on behalf of KWAM 1, pending submission and review. He added that the ruling house has always followed this process to prevent “strangers” from attempting to claim the throne.
Although the official application window closed on December 5, 2025, the ruling house granted KWAM 1 a special five-day extension, allowing him until December 10 to complete his lineage form.
“We won’t shut anybody out of picking the next Awujale, but we must ensure that you are a legitimate member of Fusengbuwa,” Owoyemi said. “Every right comes with responsibilities. For a royal family, everyone must prove their legitimacy.”
He stressed that the ruling house highly values its traditions and would not compromise on the verification process. The lineage form, he said, helps protect the throne from individuals who may want to take advantage of its prestige without belonging to the royal bloodline.
The Awujale of Ijebuland is not only a traditional ruler but also a major cultural figure who holds influence across Ijebu towns and beyond. The position comes with deep historical roots, dating back centuries. The Awujale is regarded as the custodian of Ijebu customs, the guardian of the annual Ojude Oba Festival, and a symbol of unity for Ijebus at home and abroad.
The late Oba Adetona modernised the throne and strengthened the influence of Ijebuland within Nigeria. His long reign means many younger Ijebu people have never witnessed an Awujale succession process. The current transition is therefore drawing national attention, especially within the Southwest.
Owoyemi also outlined the official timeline and procedures that will guide the emergence of the next Awujale. According to him, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House was given 14 days by the local government to submit its list of screened candidates. This deadline expires on December 18.
After that, the kingmakers will have seven days to deliberate and choose one candidate. The selected name will then be forwarded to the Ogun State Government. By law, the government must carry out a background check and security clearance within 21 days. During this period, individuals may also raise objections or protests.
“After this period, the State Executive Council will ratify the nominee, and the governor will announce the next Awujale,” Owoyemi said. “Coronation rites will then commence.”
Based on this timeline, the new Awujale is expected to emerge between the second and third week of January 2026.
The public has shown widespread interest in KWAM 1’s declaration, with many taking to social media to express support, curiosity, or doubt. Some Nigerians praised his boldness and said his influence could bring global attention to the throne. Others argued that royalty should be guided strictly by bloodline, not popularity or fame.
The Fusengbuwa ruling house has assured the public that it will treat every applicant fairly but firmly. The chairman also emphasised that they welcomed individuals who would use their influence to enhance the prestige of the throne, not to claim it without rightful heritage.
The unfolding events highlight the tension between traditional royal customs and modern public influence. While KWAM 1 is a popular cultural figure with strong ties to Ijebuland, the ruling house remains committed to following due process. Their insistence on lineage verification reflects a broader trend across many Nigerian royal institutions, where families work to preserve heritage amid changing social expectations.
As the December 10 extension deadline approaches, all eyes remain on whether KWAM 1 will complete the required lineage process. His submission—and the subsequent review—will determine whether he can formally join the list of contenders.
For now, the Fusengbuwa ruling house continues its preparations, promising a transparent and orderly selection process that respects tradition, law, and the expectations of Ijebu people worldwide.
