The Ogun State Government has formally distanced itself from widespread rumours alleging its involvement in the purported selection of Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye as the next Awujale of Ijebuland through the Ifa oracle.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the government described the claims as false, misleading, and capable of generating unnecessary tension within Ijebuland and beyond.
According to the statement, the government’s attention had been drawn to reports circulating in certain quarters that the Ifa oracle had chosen Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye as successor to the revered throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland and that the state government had endorsed or supported the alleged outcome.
The government, however, categorically denied any involvement in the rumoured process.
“The Ogun State Government is not involved in, nor has it endorsed, any such claim,” the statement read. “The process for the selection and installation of the next Awujale of Ijebuland is guided strictly by applicable laws, established procedures, and recognised traditional customs.”
Authorities stressed that any suggestion that the government had adopted or approved a candidate through an oracle or any informal channel was entirely unfounded and should be disregarded by the public.
In a significant development, the government further announced that the process of filling the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland has been temporarily suspended. The decision, it said, followed the receipt of several complaints and petitions concerning aspects of the selection procedure.
The temporary halt, according to officials, is intended to allow for a thorough review of the concerns raised and to ensure that the process remains transparent, lawful, and acceptable to all stakeholders.
Observers note that the stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland is one of the most prominent traditional institutions in Ogun State and occupies a central place in the cultural and political life of the Ijebu people. Any controversy surrounding its succession is therefore considered highly sensitive.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and due process, the government assured residents that it remains dedicated to upholding respect for traditional institutions while ensuring that statutory provisions are strictly followed.
Members of the public were advised to rely solely on official communications from the government and to refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing misunderstanding or unrest.
The Ministry reiterated that further updates on the selection process would be communicated through appropriate official channels once the review is concluded.
