Adebowale Olufeko, a prince from the Bubiade Family of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, has formally declared his candidacy for the vacant Awujale of Ijebuland stool, pledging to prioritise cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and socio-economic advancement if selected.
Speaking to journalists in Ijebu-Ode on Friday, Olufeko—a lawyer, chartered arbitrator, and mediator—emphasised his lineage and professional experience as qualifications for the revered position. The throne fell vacant following the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II, in July 2025, at age 91 after a 65-year reign.
In a statement shared with PUNCH Online on Saturday, Olufeko described his aspiration as a call to duty. “I am offering myself because I believe our people deserve a future that is peaceful, prosperous, and united,” he said. He promised to expand ongoing empowerment initiatives for youths, artisans, professionals, families, and vulnerable groups, while leveraging global networks for development opportunities.
Highlighting cultural renewal, Olufeko proposed elevating the iconic Ojude Oba Festival into a larger international carnival and establishing a polo club named after the late monarch, honouring Ijebu’s historical equestrian heritage. “Awujale throne is a sacred trust. It carries the spirit and history of our people, and it must be protected with honour and clear vision,” he stated.
He committed to collaborative governance with chiefs, kingmakers, and stakeholders, pursuing the creation of Ijebu State as a priority while upholding traditions with “humanity, wisdom, composure, inclusiveness and integrity.”
Olufeko expressed gratitude to the Olori Ebis for maintaining family harmony, kings and custodians for their loyalty to the late Awujale, Ogbeni Oja Dr Sonny Kuku for regency service, and Governor Dapo Abiodun for infrastructural strides in Ijebuland. “With unity and collective effort, Ijebuland will rise to a new level of greatness,” he concluded.
The declaration adds to growing interest in the stool, with multiple princes and ruling houses signalling intentions. Under Ijebu custom, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is next in rotational line, though the process involves kingmakers, oracles, and gubernatorial assent.
Olufeko’s background spans legal practice and international mediation, positioning him to bridge tradition with modern governance. As contenders emerge, the selection expected to draw widespread attention given the Awujale’s paramount status in Yorubaland underscores Ijebuland’s emphasis on consensus and merit in monarchical succession.
