Awujale Stool: Protesters Endorse Suspension, Demand Stiff Penalties for Bribe Givers and Takers*

 

Residents of Ijebu-Ode staged a peaceful protest on Monday in support of the Ogun State Government's suspension of the selection process for a new Awujale of Ijebuland. The protesters, representing Ijebu Sons and Daughters and Ijebu-Ode Progressive Youths, marched through major roads, calling for strict adherence to due process and severe sanctions for anyone involved in bribery.

The protesters displayed placards with messages such as "Awujale stool is not for sale," "Governor Abiodun, save Ijebuland from crisis," and "Let there be a free and fair selection process." They converged at the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat, where Council Chairman Hon. Dare Adebiosu assured them that the government has no preferred candidate and is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness.

Adebiosu stated, "The government is not interested in who emerges as Awujale. The decision to suspend the process was taken to guarantee fairness and transparency." He commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct and assured them that the process would resume soon, leading to the emergence of an Awujale who reflects the will of the people.

Speaking for the protesters, Alhaji Babatunde Salami emphasized the need for the kingmakers to maintain the integrity of the process. "The Awujale stool is highly respected, and it must not be trivialized," he said. "We want the kingmakers to choose the most suitable prince for Ijebuland."

Other protesters, including Mr. Yusuf Adetilewa and Mrs. Morolayo Oyesefo, expressed concerns over alleged bribery and corruption, calling for equal treatment of all contestants and punishment for those found culpable.

The Alagemos in Ijebuland have endorsed the government's intervention, with High Chief Tajudeen Adekunle Muili expressing confidence in Governor Dapo Abiodun's handling of the matter. "The suspension was necessary to ensure due process is followed," he said.

High Chief Wahab Samsideen Adebayo added, "The kingmakers should complete the process transparently, and we want an Awujale who will promote peace and progress in Ijebuland."