Abiodun Promises New Awujale Before May 2027, Urges Ijebuland Residents to Remain Calm

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured the people of Ijebuland that a new Awujale will emerge before the expiration of his tenure on May 29, 2027, urging residents to remain patient as the succession process continues.

Abiodun gave the assurance on Tuesday, October 27, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ijebu-Ode, where he addressed traditional affairs, governance and the economic prospects of Ogun East Senatorial District.

The governor said his administration was committed to ensuring a peaceful succession process that would produce a monarch acceptable to the people of Ijebuland.

He acknowledged the importance of the Awujale stool to the cultural heritage, identity and unity of the Ijebu people, appealing to residents to allow the necessary procedures to be completed.

Abiodun said the state government was giving the matter the attention it deserved, expressing confidence that a successor would emerge before he leaves office.

The stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona at the age of 91. The late monarch reigned for 65 years.

Although Abiodun gave a timeline for the emergence of a successor, he did not announce a selected candidate or provide a specific date for the completion of the process.

At the meeting, the governor also highlighted the economic prospects of Ogun East, identifying oil exploration activities around Eba Island and the proposed Gateway Deep-Sea Port in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area as potential drivers of investment and job creation.

He said the proposed port, alongside the planned Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, could expand opportunities in maritime trade, shipping, logistics and manufacturing.

Abiodun expressed optimism that the projects would strengthen Ogun State’s commercial position and create opportunities for businesses and young people.

He also acknowledged the Federal Government’s support for development initiatives in the state, calling for continued cooperation to advance infrastructure projects and economic development.

The stakeholders’ meeting was organised to improve engagement between the government and grassroots groups, discuss issues affecting residents and review the administration’s activities across the district.

The emergence of a successor to the late Awujale remains an important traditional and cultural matter for Ijebuland, with the governor’s latest assurance placing May 2027 as his stated deadline for the process to produce a new monarch.