Awujale stool: Protesters okay suspension, stiff penalties for bribe givers, takers

Following the suspension of the selection process for a new Awujale of Ijebuland by the Ogun State government, a group of residents, yesterday, staged a peaceful protest across Ijebu-Ode in support of the decision.

The protesters, under the banner of Ijebu Sons and Daughters and Ijebu-Ode Progressive Youths, marched through major roads in the town carrying placards with 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 procession converged on Ijebu-Ode Local Council Secretariat, where the Chairman, Dare Adebiosu, addressed the crowd. He assured the protesters that the state government had no preferred candidate, explaining that the suspension was to ensure strict adherence to due process.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Babatunde Salami said the demonstration was intended to send a clear message to the kingmakers to act responsibly.

Another protester, Mr. Yusuf Adetilewa, expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as rumours of bribery and corruption surrounding the selection process. Mrs. Morolayo Oyesefo also called for equal treatment of all contestants.

Also, the Alagemos in Ijebuland have backed the state government’s decision.

Speaking after a meeting held at the palace of the Ija-Oloko of Imosan, the Alapini Awopa General of Ogun State, Tajudeen Adekunle Muili, expressed confidence in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s handling of the matter.

Also speaking, the Gbosa and Baale of Imosan, Wahab Samsideen Adebayo, noted that the suspension would allow kingmakers to properly conclude the process by giving all contestants equal opportunity.