Awujale Succession: Fusengbuwa Ruling House Signals Readiness with Traditional Gbedu Ceremony

Awujale Succession: Fusengbuwa Ruling House Signals Readiness with Traditional Gbedu Ceremony

By Sesan Akinbowale

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode has formally declared its readiness to present a candidate for the revered Awujale stool following the passing of the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona of the Anikilaya Ruling House.

This declaration was symbolically marked by the beating of the traditional Gbedu drums on Thursday—a time-honored rite in Ijebuland that signifies the next eligible ruling house's intent to produce a new monarch.

Speaking at the event, Prince Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba, the Olori-Ebi (head of the Fusengbuwa family), affirmed the family's preparedness to present a qualified and honorable prince for the Awujale throne. He called for unity among all members of the ruling house to ensure a smooth and respectful selection process.

“In Ijebu-Ode, we have four recognized ruling houses: Anikilaya, Fusengbuwa, Fidipote, and Gbelegbuwa. With the last Awujale from the Anikilaya line, it is now our turn as Fusengbuwa to step forward,” Ajidagba stated.

He emphasized the spiritual and cultural significance of the Gbedu drumming tradition, noting that it is the first official step in signaling a new chapter in the monarchy. Ajidagba also revealed that the "Ijebu-Ode Local Government had in 2023 issued a certificate of affirmation", confirming Fusengbuwa as a legitimate ruling house.

In a plea for due process, he urged the Ogun State Government to respect the autonomy of the family in making their selection, stressing that the final candidate must be broadly accepted and uphold Ijebu traditions.

Also addressing the gathering was Prince Adeleke Adeyemi, General Secretary for both the Fusengbuwa family and the collective four ruling houses. He shared that he has meticulously maintained family records for over two decades and assured that all eight branches of the Fusengbuwa family were united in their support for the process.

“It is both our right and responsibility to present a credible and respected candidate. We are fully aligned under the capable leadership of Prince Ajidagba,” Adeyemi stated.

Chief Razaq Adeleye Osimodi, the Olowa of Ijebu-Ode and Abore of the Awujale, also endorsed the ceremony. He reiterated the Gbedu ritual’s longstanding role in identifying the rightful lineage to produce the next king and confirmed that the Ifa oracle would guide the final selection.

“I support the steps taken so far by the Fusengbuwa leaders. Though many may be interested, only one Echoing the sentiments of unity and heritage, Prince Olaseni Samsideen Ottun highlighted the deep-rooted customs of Ijebuland and expressed pride in belonging to the ruling house now poised to ascend.

“There is no division in our family. We stand together, praying for wisdom, divine direction, and the protection of our elders as we proceed,” he affirmed.