Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has set May 29 as the deadline for the emergence of a new Awujale of Ijebuland, raising expectations over the conclusion of a succession process that began after the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025.
Abiodun gave the assurance at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, where representatives of different interest groups gathered to discuss developments in Ogun East Senatorial District.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by his media adviser, Kayode Akinmade, the governor said his administration was working to secure a peaceful and widely accepted transition to the next occupant of the revered traditional stool.
“I acknowledge the importance of the Awujale institution to the cultural heritage, identity and unity of Ijebuland. Our people should remain calm and patient as the necessary processes are being concluded,” Abiodun said.
He added that the government was giving the succession the attention it required to ensure that the next Awujale received the acceptance and support of the community.
The announcement offers a timeline for a process that has attracted considerable attention because of the institution’s historical, cultural and social significance across Ijebuland. However, the governor’s assurance does not, by itself, establish that a candidate has been selected or that all required stages of the succession have been completed.
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What the deadline means
The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Adetona at the age of 91. His 65-year reign made him one of Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers.
The selection of a successor involves established traditional procedures and relevant authorities. Abiodun’s statement did not specify the outstanding stages, identify any candidate or explain whether May 29 represents the expected completion of the selection process or the formal installation of the new monarch.
These distinctions matter because the announcement concerns more than filling a vacant throne. The legitimacy of the next ruler will depend on compliance with the applicable procedures and the acceptance of the outcome by the relevant traditional institutions and the community.
A smooth transition could also help preserve unity among stakeholders whose interests may differ during a succession contest. Conversely, uncertainty or disputes could prolong the vacancy and place pressure on the institutions responsible for resolving disagreements.
Development agenda accompanies succession talks
Abiodun used the meeting to highlight projects expected to strengthen Ogun’s economy, including oil exploration around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
He also identified the proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone as a potential source of investment, employment and growth in maritime trade, manufacturing and logistics.
The governor said the meeting was intended to improve grassroots engagement and address community concerns, while acknowledging President Bola Tinubu’s support for projects in the state.
With May 29 now presented as the target, attention will turn to the authorities overseeing the succession and the steps required to deliver a new Awujale within the promised timeframe. Until those details emerge, the date represents a government assurance rather than confirmation that the succession has been concluded.
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