Chief Imam Urges Ogun Governor to Select New Awujale

Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo, the Chief Imam of Ijebuland, has made an urgent appeal to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to ensure the selection of a new Awujale is completed before the Eid-el-Kabir festival. Ayanbadejo's request, made during a send-off ceremony for the first contingent of state hajj pilgrims, highlights the significance of having a monarch in place for the celebration.

He noted that the absence of the Awujale would disrupt longstanding traditions, particularly during this important festival. The Chief Imam referenced the historical context of Eid-el-Kabir in Ijebu, dating back to 1875, when the Awujale provided land for Muslim worshippers.

He emphasized the need for the governor to lift the suspension on the selection process, which was halted in January due to security concerns surrounding the Awujale stool, which became vacant in 2025 following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona. Ayanbadejo's plea was echoed by Abdulateef Owoyemi, the chairman of Fusengbuwa Rule House, who also urged the governor to facilitate the completion of the selection process.