Abiodun assures Ijebuland new Awujale will emerge before May 29

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has assured the people of Ijebuland that a new Awujale will emerge before May 29, as the process to fill the vacant traditional stool continues.

Abiodun gave the assurance at the Ogun East Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, attended by representatives of various interest groups. His Media Adviser, Kayode Akinmade, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

The governor said his administration was committed to ensuring a peaceful, smooth and acceptable succession process, urging the people to remain calm and patient while the necessary procedures were concluded.

“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,” he said.

Abiodun added that the government was giving the matter the attention it deserved to ensure that the selection process was concluded peacefully and that the emergence of a new Awujale enjoyed the acceptance and support of the people.

He said the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strengthen engagement with grassroots groups, address community concerns and showcase his administration’s achievements over the past seven years.

On economic development, the governor identified oil exploration around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area as major growth drivers. He added that the proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone would attract investment, create jobs and position Ogun as a hub for maritime trade, manufacturing and logistics.

Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and investment promotion, appreciating President Bola Tinubu’s support for critical projects in the state. The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona at 91, after a 65-year reign.