The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Osun NULGE rejects APC-reinstated LG executives’ plan to recall workers amid council crisis

    Osun NULGE rejects APC-reinstated LG executives’ plan to recall workers amid council crisis

    The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Osun State chapter, has accused the reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) local government executives of attempting to induce workers to resume duties despite ongoing council leadership disputes.

    NULGE President Nathaniel Ogungbagbe, speaking on Friday at the Ministry of Local Government, Abere, insisted that no worker would resume on Monday until all legal issues surrounding the control tussle between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are resolved.

    The Nation recalls that following the reinstatement of the APC executives, the FG withheld allocations since February 2025, releasing them only in September to council accounts managed by the APC chairmen. This prompted a faction of workers to vow to resume duties.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    Ogungbagbe, however, alleged that the move is an APC strategy to destabilise their struggle and disrupt peace in the state. He added that the faction’s leader, Comrade Adekunle Adedayo, was disgruntled after losing a union presidential election in March.

    He boasted that “I can tell you for a fact that our members will not resume their duty post on Monday. Any worker who resumes, APC, induced them to do so.

    “Governor Ademola Adeleke is performing excellently well for all civil servants and pensioners in the State. Despite these, the bunch of integrates are hell-bent on destroying the peace.

    “We are appealing to all educative and well-informed esteemed members not to harken to the call to resume duty. We are not going to force anyone not to join them, but I am sure that our members won’t join the resumption.”

  • Coalition praises Tinubu’s reforms, Tunji-Ojo’s role in national transformation

    Coalition praises Tinubu’s reforms, Tunji-Ojo’s role in national transformation

    Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations has hailed President Bola Tinubu for rekindling hope in the Nigerian people through purposeful leadership and the appointment of competent ministers, with particular reference to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    The Coalition, in a statement by its leaders, Chisom Ochiaga and Obaseyi Ogunrinde, emphasised that the President’s Independence Day address resonated with Nigerians not only because of its frank assessment of the nation’s challenges but also because it showcased tangible progress already recorded in critical areas of governance.

    The group described the mention of Hon. Tunji-Ojo in the President’s speech as a “classical example of what Nigeria gains when competence, dedication, and vision are placed above politics in leadership appointments.”

    According to the coalition, Tinubu’s recognition of the Interior Minister’s stellar performance has further confirmed that the administration’s reformist agenda is on the right track.

    “The President’s acknowledgement of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s achievements in the Interior Ministry is a reflection of how the government’s bold reforms are resolving the nation’s long-standing challenges. Nigerians now see how effective governance can transform institutions once regarded as stumbling blocks,” the coalition stated.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    The group cited sweeping reforms championed by the Ministry of Interior under Tunji-Ojo, including the digitization of passport application and processing systems, the drastic reduction in bureaucratic bottlenecks within immigration services, and a renewed efficiency in the handling of correctional facilities.

    These reforms, it noted, have restored public confidence in the ministry and demonstrated the tangible benefits of President Tinubu’s commitment to appointing the right people into leadership positions.

    The coalition further noted that Tunji-Ojo’s drive to sanitize the operations of agencies under his ministry, ensure transparency, and deploy technology in service delivery has endeared the Tinubu administration to even its staunchest critics.

    “The Interior Ministry has become a model of reform, efficiency, and innovation, thanks to the leadership of Hon. Tunji-Ojo.

    “This is why Nigerians from diverse backgrounds, including those once skeptical of the administration, are beginning to rally behind the President’s vision,” the coalition remarked.

    Reaffirming its stance, the Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations pledged unrelenting support for the progress of Nigeria under President Tinubu.

    “As far as the policies of this administration remain pro-people, we will continue to stand firmly behind President Tinubu and the reformist ministers like Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    “His example must be replicated across other sectors to deepen the dividends of democracy,” the statement concluded.

    The coalition’s endorsement reflects growing acknowledgment within civic spaces that Tinubu’s reforms, as exemplified by the Interior Ministry, are rekindling faith in governance and opening a new chapter of hope for Nigeria.

  • Olubadan: CCII, Mogajis, others honour Oba Ladoja at Jumat Thanksgiving

    Olubadan: CCII, Mogajis, others honour Oba Ladoja at Jumat Thanksgiving

    The coronation Jumat Thanksgiving service of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, drew dignitaries, including members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis, senators, and politicians.

    The event, held on Friday at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba, Ibadan, formed part of the weeklong activities marking the coronation of Oba Ladoja, who was presented with the Staff and Instrument of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde last week at Mapo Hall.

    In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakar Agbotomokekere, urged residents and indigenes to support the monarch for a successful reign, cautioning against distractions that could hinder the city’s progress.

    He praised Oba Ladoja as a respected leader whose pedigree and antecedents command recognition within and outside Ibadanland, stressing that leadership begins at the family level and requires accountability.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    Highlights of the event included special prayers for Olubadan’s reign and the presentation of a gift to him.

    Among the dignitaries present were CCII President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole; President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori; Senator Sharafadeen Ali; Senator Fatai Buhari; former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin; ex-lawmaker, Soji Akanbi; former Osun SSG, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade; and ICPI Coordinator, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade.

  • Court extends order freezing of Osun LG funds till October 9

    Court extends order freezing of Osun LG funds till October 9

    An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has extended its Interim Injunction against the United Bank for Africa (UBA), sustaining the no-debit restriction placed on 30 bank accounts into which withheld Osun State local government allocations were lodged by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    Justice Ladiran Akintola, in his ruling on Friday, said the extension was necessary to ensure fair hearing for all parties in the suit No. 1/1149/2025: the Attorney-General of Osun State, the Osun State Local Government Service Commission, and United Bank for Africa Plc.

    While counsel to UBA Plc was absent, lawyers representing the court-sacked APC council chairmen, led by Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, were present, having just filed an application for joinder.

    Counsel to the plaintiffs, Musibau Adetunmbi, SAN, however, told the court that he required time to review the two applications filed by the ex-chairmen’s counsel.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    He explained that the application for joinder and another one challenging the court’s territorial jurisdiction were filed on Thursday and Friday respectively.

    Adetunmbi, while citing points of law, insisted that the ex-APC council chairmen lacked the locus standi to challenge the court’s jurisdiction.

    According to him, the ex-LG chairmen remained strangers to the case since their application for joinder had not yet been decided upon by the court.

    On the need for extension of the interim order, Adetunmbi said: “I received the two applications yesterday (Thursday) and today (Friday). I will need time to study them as well as reply on points of law.”

    But counsel to the former APC local government chairmen and councillors faulted the description of his clients as strangers, arguing that they were directly affected by the court’s Interim Injunction of 26 September 2025.

    He contended that, under the law, his clients had the right to be joined in the suit.

    Gbadamosi, in the application filed on 2 October 2025, also challenged the territorial jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.

    Citing relevant authorities, he argued: “The court has no power in respect of a case in which its jurisdiction is being challenged to extend the order of life span that had expired.”

    At the court sitting in Ibadan on Friday, further arguments were presented in the form of a further affidavit deposed to by a senior personnel of one of the 30 local government councils.

    In her deposition, Mrs. Aluko Rachael Abidemi, Head of Local Government Administration in Boluwaduro Local Government, revealed that certain individuals were making attempts to siphon council funds in defiance of a subsisting court order.

    She cited an undated letter addressed to UBA by two individuals—Mr. Adebayo Oyekanmi and Mr. Lasisi Gbadebo Oyebode—who claimed to be Chairman and Treasurer of Boluwaduro Local Government. In the letter, they instructed the bank to deduct 15 percent of the statutory allocation and pay it into the account of a private law firm with UBA.

    Mrs. Abidemi, however, informed the court that the said individuals had no legal authority to make such instructions. She stressed that Mr. Oyebode was neither a staff of Boluwaduro Local Government nor its Treasurer, as the position of “Treasurer” does not exist in Osun’s local government structure. 

    According to her, by the 2025 Guidelines for Local Government Administration in the state, only the Director of Finance and the Director of Administration & General Services are recognised as signatories to local government accounts. She also identified the current officers holding those positions and tendered exhibits to confirm their status.

    The claimants maintained that the matter of who the legitimate chairmen of the councils are remains sub judice before the Supreme Court in Suit No. SC/CV/773/2025, and warned that disbursing the funds under the present circumstances would undermine justice. 

    Speaking with reporters after the sitting, counsel to the Attorney-General of Osun State, Adetunmbi (SAN), disclosed that a related case on the funds is already before the Supreme Court and has been fixed for hearing on 7 October.

    On Friday’s ruling, he explained: “The crux of the matter is to safeguard the money in issue pending the Supreme Court’s determination on Tuesday, 7 October 2025.

    “Our contention is that even those who paid the money knew the matter was already before the court. They should have respected the Supreme Court by holding on to the money.

    “Let the Supreme Court speak, everybody will be happy, but for you to pay just like that is not acceptable.

    “As I earlier informed the court, there is a letter directing that 15% of the withheld funds from March to September — running into billions of naira — should be paid as legal fees to one individual.

    “In what manner? By what procedure? Without this preservation order, the rest of the money would have been gone by now.”

    Commenting on the newly filed applications, he added, “They just served us with two applications. One was filed today, the other yesterday. I need time to react. The court has extended the Interim Injunction for the preservation of the disputed funds.”

    On the joinder application, the Attorney-General maintained, “We are going to oppose the joinder because nothing concerns them with this case.”

  • Reinstated Osun APC LG chairmen pledge to recall 1,500 workers, clear monarchs’ salary arrears

    Reinstated Osun APC LG chairmen pledge to recall 1,500 workers, clear monarchs’ salary arrears

    Reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmen have promised to reinstate over 1,500 sacked workers and clear outstanding salary arrears owed to traditional rulers following the release of withheld council allocations by the federal government.

    The allocations, withheld since February 2025 due to a leadership tussle between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) factions, were finally released in September into the council accounts operated by the APC chairmen.

    Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the APC faction, Abiodun Idowu, reaffirmed the commitment of the chairmen to grassroots governance, insisting that the APC-led executives remain the authentic administrators of the 30 local governments and the area office in the state.

    He stressed that their mandate, freely given by the people in October 2022, was only interrupted by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration before being restored by the Court of Appeal on February 10, 2025.

    He vowed, “Plans are ongoing to recall and re-engage the 1,500 teachers employed by the last APC government of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola but sacked by the present administration. We will also recall the dismissed health workers, O’YES cadets, and O’Meal vendors. Beyond recalling them, we will offset part of their salaries and emoluments. This is a policy statement, not politics.”

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    Also, he assured that traditional rulers in the state would also benefit, as arrangements have been concluded to clear arrears owed to them by the state government.

    However, Idowu accused the Adeleke administration of using the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and other groups to frustrate the release of federal allocations meant for local governments, which he said would have eased financial pressures on traditional rulers, teachers, and health workers.

    He berated the claim that the APC-led council executives are plotting to siphon the local government allocation by illegally instructing commercial banks to deduct 15 percent of local government allocations as legal fees.

  • Ex-Oyo First Lady Mutiat Ladoja donates millions to orphanages, calls for support for PLWDs

    Ex-Oyo First Lady Mutiat Ladoja donates millions to orphanages, calls for support for PLWDs

    Former Oyo State First Lady and wife of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Ayaba Mutiat Ladoja, has donated over N2 million in cash and several million worth of items to at least 16 orphanages and care homes for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWD) as part of activities marking her 70th birthday.

    She urged government at all levels, corporate bodies, and well-meaning individuals to be more responsive to the challenges faced by PLWDs, stressing that they deserve love, care, and opportunities rather than discrimination.

    Ayaba Ladoja added that many PLWDs possess untapped potential that can be nurtured through scholarships and other forms of support to help them achieve greatness in life.

    She said, “I started associating with the Persons Living with Disabilities 30 years ago. I have been using the few resources that God blesses me with to assist them.

    “They deserve our attention, love, and care. Rather than looking down on them, we should identify their potential and build on it.

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    “We should let them have a sense of belonging. They are part of society. The government at all levels, corporate organisations, and individuals should intensify their efforts towards them.

    “Disabilities can come in any form. It comes with age. It can come through accident and any other forms, hence the reason we must not look down on them. We all have our disabilities.

    “When they want to cross the road, assist them instead of making a mockery of their situation. Also, assist them with the little that you have. Don’t wait until you have millions of naira in your account

    “I started what we are witnessing today 30 years ago. It has become my way of life, and I thank the likes of Babs Oduyoye for sharing the vision.

    “Today, I will be giving N100,000 to 15 Homes, two wheelchairs, two bags of rice each, two cartons of Indomie each, and cartons of soap

    “Also, five vulnerable people will be assisted with Deep chest freezers and grinding machines to start their businesses.

    “My message to us is that we should show them love, attention, and care.”

    More than 200 PLD attended the birthday celebrations with members of the PLD community on the live band stand.

    Delivering a public lecture earlier at the event, the Chief Imam, Oluyole Estate Extension, Southwest, Ring Road, Ibadan, Alhaji Mudashiru Bada quoted various philosophers and views of scholars that have shaped the thinking of people on perseverance and resilience.

    Speaking on the topic: “Celebrating the woman of substance at 70”, the guest lecturer noted that Ayaba Ladoja, despite being out of government for years, has never withdrawn her support for a pet project she started while in office as the First Lady.

    He described the monarch’s wife as a landscape of charity in the eyes of a discerning mind, urging her not to relent in her vision of giving succour to humanity within the limit of her visionary capacity to the glory of God and admiration of mankind.

    Bada said, “This summarises my definitions of our dear mama of substance. Her Excellency Ayaba Mutiat Ladoja, who, despite that she is no longer in governance, has never withdrawn her profound and unwavering commitment in respect of her Idera De Pet project, her servitude to God through succor to humanity.

    “A woman of vision and a landscape in the eye of a discerning mind she is, allowing others to see the hope inside and beyond.”

  • Makinde hails Jagz Hotel’s exploits in hospitality industry

    Makinde hails Jagz Hotel’s exploits in hospitality industry

    Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has hailed the exploits of Jagz Hotels in the hospitality industry, describing its huge investment as a game changer for tourism and economic growth.

    Speaking at a  hospitality conference organised by the Jagz Hotels to mark its first anniversary in Ibadan, the Governor said the exploits of the hotel reflect the positive impacts of his administration’s business-friendly policies, which has continued to attract both local and foreign investors.

    Makinde noted that the giant strides of Jagz Hotels in the hospitality industry aligned with his administration’s broader plan to expand the Oyo state’s economy through tourism development. 

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    He said that his administration recently broke a 43-year-old jinx at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, when a wide-bodied aircraft successfully landed on the newly upgraded runway for the first time since its commissioning.

    According to Makinde, the  development would further open Oyo state to more tourists and investors who  can enjoy world-class hospitality services provided by Jagz Hotels and other establishment.

    He commended Chairman/CEO of Jagz Hotels, Engr. Kayode Adegbulugbe, for injecting over N10 billion into the state’s economy, saying that such confidence in government policies shows that Oyo is becoming a hub of investment.

    He said; “I am glad to be here one year after we inaugurated this business. The business has not folded up; instead, it is waxing stronger. That does not happen by accident. it is the result of hard work and dedication from the management, staff, and even patrons of this hotel.

    “Since the past one year, the economic environment has been very challenging, yet this hotel is still standing tall. That shows you have built a formidable team. As a government, I assure you that whatever you need to keep succeeding, please ask, and we will oblige,” the governor added.

    The Managing Director of Jagz Hotels, Mr. Gbenga Lugard Agbomoagan, lauded Governor Makinde-led administration for creating a partnership framework that supports private businesses.

    Agbomoagan, who presented Makinde an award of excellence for promoting an enabling business environment, said that the government through its policies had given the Jagz Hotels the confidence to commit huge resources into its Ibadan project.

    The Managing Director noted that the experience had been more rewarding compared to other locations where the company has operations. 

    Highlighting the company’s impact in just one year of operation, Agbomoagan disclosed that Jagz Hotel, Ibadan had lifted more than 150 unemployed youths out of poverty through empowerment and employment opportunities.

    He noted the hotel employs no fewer than 159 people, with 137 of them drawn from Oyo State, adding that these figures represent more than statistics, as it would has a multiplier effect on society by reducing poverty as well as fostering economic stability.

    He assured that the company would not relent in its mission, pledging that Jagz Hotels would continue to provide world-class hospitality services in Ibadan while expanding opportunities for youths in Oyo State.

    Oyo Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, also commended the management of Jagz Hotels, noting that the growth of the hospitality sector in Ibadan reflects the success of the Makinde administration’s investment-friendly climate.

    In their contribution, a Professor of Hotel Management and Tourism, Prof. Wasiu Babalola, and the Head of Department, Wildlife and Ecotourism, University of Ibadan, Prof. Samson Ojo, lauded Jagz Hotels for redefining hospitality business in Oyo State.

  • Adegoke, Akintunde, others seek electoral reforms

    Adegoke, Akintunde, others seek electoral reforms

    The Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Adegoke has called for urgent reforms in political, institutional and consequences management ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Adegoke, while speaking at the Yemi Farounbi Colloquium’s Nigeria 65th Independence Anniversary Lecture in Ibadan, said there is urgent need for reforms within Nigeria’s political parties, saying the nation’s democratic process cannot thrive without fixing the foundation of political recruitment.

    He lamented that it is difficult for professionals and technocrats to participate in politics due to flawed recruitment mechanisms within political parties. 

    Adegoke, who was the Chairman at the lecture, emphasised that integrity, teamwork and proper candidates selection are critical to achieving credible elections.

    According to him, the challenges facing elections are not solely the responsibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as  he said the commission is only part of a larger system. 

    He insisted that cases of electoral fraud must be met with prosecution and effective consequence management, where offenders are penalized without exceptions.

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    While acknowledging importance of reviewing Nigeria’s legal framework, Adegoke stressed that implementation is even more crucial. 

    He added that institutional reforms must extend beyond INEC to include citizens, political parties, and security agencies such as the police.

    “The people also need reforms,” he said, categorising it as part of the broader institutional reforms needed for Nigeria’s democracy to progress.

    The guest lecturer, Senator Yunus Akintunde, while speaking on the topic “Recalibrating Nigeria’s Electoral Architecture: Legal, Technological and Institutional Reforms for 2027”, said to recalibrate Nigeria’s electoral architecture will requires the pursuance of  comprehensive reforms and  not piecemeal adjustments.

    Akintunde, who was represented by his media aide, Kunle Olatunji, called for establishment of an Electoral Reform Implementation Committee by mid-2026 to coordinate legal, technological, and institutional changes.

    Akintunde further said that there is the need to build consensus across INEC, political parties, civil society, judiciary, and security agencies; prioritize sustained civic education to rebuild citizens’ trust and reduce apathy.

    He said Nigeria should learn from international best practices but adapt reforms to Nigeria’s realities.

    Speaking on necessary institutional reforms, Akintunde said institutions, not individuals, must anchor the Electoral system.

    He said reforms should include: ensuring that appointments to INEC leadership are based on competence, independence, and integrity, not political patronage; decentralizing INEC’s operations to empower state offices: Establishing a specialized Election Security Unit insulated from partisan control;  Strengthening judicial independence and expediting electoral case resolution; Enforcing internal democracy within political parties, with strict penalties for infractions and Expanding the roles of civil society and media in civic education, monitoring, and accountability.

    Akintunde said the 2027 elections present another opportunity to restore faith in democracy. 

    “With them right legal reforms, technological upgrades, and institutional recalibration, Nigeria can build an electoral system that is transparent, resilient, and truly reflective of the people’s will.

    “The future of Nigeria depends on it and our collective resolve to ensure positioning our nation on the right trajectory in this regard will activate our desire for sustainable development agenda towards true Nation building.”

    Also, former Nigerian Ambassador to Philippines and the Kingdom of Cambodia, Amb. Yemi Farounbi said good Leadership comprises three key elements, which are vision, competence and character, saying if the character is lacking, the other two elements will be meaningless.

    “The takeaway from this lecture is that we will have good Nigeria when we have good leadership and we would have good leadership if we have good followership who elect good leadership.

    “A mango tree will never produce an orange fruit. If Nigeria is bad, it will not produce a good president or a good governor.

    “Nigeria is currently constitutes of about 230 Millions people and without the people, there can’t be Nigeria. If the people are not right, then Nigeria cannot be right.”

    The Administrative Secretary of  INEC in Oyo State, Mrs Rosemary Adeniyi, said the Commission has consistently advocated for and appreciates the growing consensus on the need for financial and administrative autonomy for the Electoral Umpire.

    “This is not about aggrandisement; it is about efficiency and predictability. When INEC receives its funds directly from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, it uses the same to eliminates bureaucratic bottlenecks that can delay critical electoral activities like the timely printing of sensitive materials, the recruitment and training of ad-hoc staff and the maintenance of our technological asset. 

    “In Oyo State however, we are committed to maximizing every resource allocated to us. We are deepening the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), not just for accreditation but for verification of voters on election day. 

    “The use of INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) has also ensured the seamless transmission of results, which has become a cornerstone of public trust in the electoral process. Our goal is an INEC in Oyo State that is not only independent in name but is seen by all as a truly effective, impartial and professional umpire.”

  • Group advocates inclusive democratic system 

    Group advocates inclusive democratic system 

    The Lagos State chapter of the Omoluabi Progressive, a coalition of young politicians in the Southwest, has called for a more active and inclusive democratic system.

    This, it said, is to ensure that the voices of people at the grassroots are better represented in governance.

    Speaking at a meeting held in Lagos, the group, under the leadership of its state chairman, Rilwan Usman, stressed that true democracy can only thrive when ordinary citizens are carried along in decision-making processes.

    Usman noted that the current political climate requires a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between leaders and the electorate.

    He added that the Omoluabi Progressive was committed to building a platform where young leaders can champion accountability, transparency, and grassroots development.

    “Our mission is to ensure that the people at the grassroots are not sidelined but remain the bedrock of democratic participation. 

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    “As young progressives, we believe in a system where every voice counts and where governance reflects the aspirations of the people,” he said.

    The group resolved to intensify grassroots mobilization across local communities in Lagos, while also advocating youth involvement in leadership and policy development.

    According to Usman, the Omoluabi Progressive intends to set a new standard of political engagement in Lagos State, one that prioritises community needs and sustainable development over personal interests.

    The meeting ended with a renewed pledge by members to work together in strengthening democratic ideals and preparing young leaders for more active roles in the political process.

  • Fusengbuwa Ruling House faction declares self ‘original’ for Awujale succession

    Fusengbuwa Ruling House faction declares self ‘original’ for Awujale succession

    A new faction within the Fusengbuwa Ruling House has declared itself the “original” Fusengbuwa Ruling House, as preparations intensify for the selection of Awujale of Ijebuland.

    The declaration was made yesterday during a news briefing at the Oba Adesimbo Tunwase Museum & Hall, Agunsebi, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

    The new faction led by Chief Fassy Yusuf, comprises Jadiara Royal House, Bubiade Royal House, Tunwase Royal House and Fusengbuwa Royal House.

    Yusuf, who addressed reporters, said the appellation “original” was adopted to distinguish the group without denying membership of other family branches.

    He said the purpose of the gathering was to announce the end of the mourning period for the late monarch, Oba Sikiru Adetona, which would formally end on October 11.

    With the mourning period ending, he said the family must begin implementing the provisions of the declaration made under Section 4 (2) of the Chiefs Law 1957, Customary Law Regulating the Selection to the Awujale of Ijebuland Chieftaincy.

    The declaration, which he read aloud, identifies the four ruling houses as Gbelegbuwa, Anikinlaiya, Fusengbuwa and Fidipote, in that order of rotation.

    He said succession might devolve through the female line in the absence of a qualified male, provided the candidate’s mother was a true-born (Abidagba).

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    Responding to questions on the Folagbade Adenuga group’s claim of Abidagba status, Yusuf maintained that Folagbade was not listed among the four ruling houses in the declaration, and therefore should align with its appropriate branch.

    On the issue of leadership, he said the “original” group had not yet announced a family head, but is represented by himself as coordinator and Pastor Prince Bola Salami as secretary.

    Membership registration forms and expression of interest forms for candidates aspiring to the Awujale stool were also unveiled at the briefing. While the forms are free, a voluntary support contribution of N2,000 was suggested for the family database registration.

    Chief Yusuf addressed the rift with Otunba Owoyemi, explaining that the earlier Memorandum of Understanding signed between Dr. Adekunle Hassan’s group and Owoyemi had made the latter head of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, with Yusuf as deputy and Salami as secretary. However, he said Owoyemi’s subsequent alignment with the Ajidagba branch violated the spirit of that agreement.

    “The world is dynamic, change is imminent, and the dynamics of change may also change tomorrow,” Yusuf remarked. “But for now, this is the situation we have found ourselves.”

    The briefing was attended by Otunba Odedina Emmanuel, Oloriebi of Jadiara; Prince Adewale Jadesinmi, Oloriebi of Bubiade; Prince Bolarinde Salami, Secretary of the group; Chief G.A. Sanni, Balogun of Esugbon; and Oba Prof. Titilayo Hassan, Elesugbon of Esugbon, along with several other members of the four recognised branches—Jadiara, Bubiade, Tunwase and Fusengbuwa.