ABEOKUTA— The Ogun State Government has officially distanced itself from circulating rumours that the Ifa oracle has selected Prince Ademorin Aliu Kuye as the next Awujale of Ijebuland, stressing that it has not endorsed any candidate for the revered stool.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the government described the claims as “false” and “misleading,” urging the public to disregard them entirely.
The clarification follows whispers in certain quarters suggesting that the oracle had pronounced a successor and that the state government had given its backing to the process.
“The Government wishes to categorically state that it 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 the applicable laws, established procedures, and recognised traditional customs.”
Selection Process Temporarily Suspended
Amidst the confusion, the government also announced a temporary suspension of the entire selection process to fill the vacant stool.
According to the statement from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the halt became necessary following the receipt of various complaints and petitions regarding the selection procedure.
“The temporary suspension is to allow for due review and to ensure that the process remains transparent, lawful, and acceptable to all concerned parties,” the government explained.
While reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and respecting traditional institutions, the government advised members of the public to rely solely on official communications and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing tension.
The stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland became vacant following the transition of the late monarch. The selection of a new ruler is expected to follow the chieftaincy declaration and customary laws guiding the process.
