Awujale Stool: Ijebuland Deserves the Best, Says Prince Ottun

…Prince Ottun Commends Gov. Abiodun’s Role in Ensuring a Fair Process

Prince Olaseni Samsideen Ottun, a distinguished banker, consultant, and corporate leader, has declared that Ijebuland “deserves the best” as the succession process for the Awujale stool begins.

Ottun, a proud son of Ijebuland and a member of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu-Ode, is among the contenders vying for the revered throne. Speaking with journalists in Ijebu-Ode on Monday, he commended Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration for what he described as a “befitting framework” that will enable the Fusengbuwa family to present a worthy candidate.

He pledged to prioritize the growth and development of Ijebuland if given the opportunity to serve, stressing that the people deserve a youthful, visionary monarch who can connect with today’s realities.

“There is no place like home. Ijebuland needs a leader who understands our heritage, but also has the capacity to embrace innovation and inspire progress,” he said.

Ottun paid glowing tribute to the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing him as an exemplary monarch who preserved Ijebu culture and united the people throughout his long reign. “The next Awujale should build on the good legacy left behind by Oba Adetona,” he noted.

Highlighting Ijebuland’s global relevance, Ottun described the kingdom as one of the most culturally sophisticated in Africa. “Ijebu-Ode, though small in landmass, remains the cultural and political headquarters of Ijebuland and the seat of the Awujale,” he said.

On the profile of the next monarch, Ottun called for the selection of a younger successor. “I strongly believe we should look for someone youthful. A king between 45 and 55 years of age will have the vibrancy and longevity to reign meaningfully. History shows that long and impactful reigns, such as that of Oba Adetona, leave lasting legacies,” he argued.

He emphasized that youth bring innovation, energy, and new perspectives, particularly in areas of technology and modern governance, pointing to Oba Adetona’s early ascension as proof that young leaders can deliver enduring progress.

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Ottun also shed light on the succession process, which is guided by the 1957 Western State Chieftaincy Declarations. The throne rotates among the Gbelegbuwa, Anikinaiya, Fusengbuwa, and Fidipote ruling houses. With Oba Adetona hailing from the Anikinaiya house, it is now the turn of the Fusengbuwa ruling house. Candidates are nominated by the family, screened by the Odis, and finally assessed by the council of 13 kingmakers drawn from the Ilamuren, Odi, Pampa, and Osugbo classes.

“The next Awujale must be wise, courageous, and incorruptible. He must preserve tradition while embracing progress. It should not be about money or influence, but about leadership, integrity, and vision,” Ottun stressed.

On government’s role in the process, Ottun praised Governor Abiodun for maintaining neutrality and fairness. “The Governor is a prince himself and understands the importance of rulership. He is a man of integrity and high standards who cannot see white and call it black. His massive road projects and support for the Ijebu Traditional Council demonstrate his commitment to Ijebuland’s growth,” he said.

For Ottun, the Awujale stool represents not just authority, but also honour, responsibility, and a sacred trust. “Leadership is about vision, influence, and the ability to inspire. The next monarch must carry the burdens of tradition and development with courage, honesty, and incorruptibility,” he concluded.