Awujale: What Abiodun Discussed With Kingmakers – Ogun Govt Addresses Speculations

The Ogun State Government has said Governor Dapo Abiodun’s recent meeting with Ijebu kingmakers centred strictly on consultations aimed at safeguarding harmony and due process in the selection of a new Awujale, dismissing claims of confrontation or interference as false and misleading.

In a statement signed by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, the government explained that the governor held a respectful consultative meeting with the Council of Afobajes, consistent with similar engagements he had previously undertaken to resolve tensions within traditional institutions.

According to the statement, the discussions focused on issues of mutual concern in the interest of orderly progress in traditional affairs in Ijebuland.

The government recalled that such consultative approaches had, in the past, helped to harmonise previously polarised Olori Ebis and even led to the withdrawal of a court case by one of the kingmakers, underscoring the governor’s preference for dialogue and consensus-building.

Addressing reports that the governor issued threats or ultimatums during the meeting, the state government described the claims as entirely fabricated. It dismissed statements attributed to the governor, including the phrase “No Kuye, No Awujale,” as falsehoods with no connection to Governor Abiodun or his administration.

The statement stressed that no member of the Council of Afobajes could attest to such an occurrence, noting that the reports were the handiwork of mischief makers seeking to stir tension around the Awujale succession process.

Reaffirming its position, the government said Governor Abiodun remains committed to upholding due process, respecting the autonomy of traditional institutions, and ensuring a fair and credible process in the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebu.

It added that the governor has consistently demonstrated deep respect for the Awujale stool and the cultural heritage it represents.
The government urged members of the public, traditional stakeholders, and the media to disregard the unfounded insinuations and rely only on verified information from official sources.