An Ogun State prince and descendant of the Bubiade Family of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu Ode, Adebowale Olufeko, has declared his interest in the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland.
He says his aspiration is rooted in service, cultural preservation, and a commitment to unity and development.
PUNCH Online reports that the seat became vacant following the demise of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, in July 2025.
Addressing journalists in Ijebu-Ode On Friday, Olufeko, a lawyer, Chartered Arbitrator and Mediator, described himself as a bona fide candidate of the ruling house, noting that his background, experience and lineage qualified him for the throne.
All these were disclosed in a statement shared with PUNCH Online on Saturday.
Olufeko said he recently declared his intention to vie for the revered traditional stool, promising unity, growth and cultural renewal for Ijebuland.
He said his interest in the Awujale stool was based on duty, antecedents, loyalty, experience and commitment to the progress of Ijebuland.
He said his professional background as an attorney, mediator and Chartered Fellow Arbitrator positioned him to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the kingdom and to elevate the Ojude Oba Festival into a larger global cultural and economic carnival.
Tracing his ambition to service to humanity, Olufeko said, “I am offering myself because I believe our people deserve a future that is peaceful, prosperous, and united.
“I will continue empowering youths, artisans, professionals, families, and the vulnerable-work I am already actively engaged in, I will also attract local and international development opportunities, leveraging my global exposure and networks.”
He noted that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is next in line to produce the Awujale following the transition, describing the throne as central to the identity of the people.
“In fact, 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 said.
Olufeko unveiled what he described as a bold and modern plan rooted in Ijebu values, adding that he would draw from his local and international experiences and partnerships to advance the development of Ijebuland.
He pledged to preserve and uphold the rich culture, customs and traditions of the Ijebu people, noting their historical reputation as horse riders and proposing the establishment of a Polo Club to be named after the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II.
According to him, he would work collaboratively with Chiefs, Kingmakers, governments and other stakeholders to ensure enduring peace and development, while serving as a worthy custodian of Ijebu ancestral heritage.
He further pledged to serve with humanity, wisdom, composure, inclusiveness and integrity, adding that the pursuit of the creation of Ijebu State would be a top priority.
Olufeko expressed appreciation to the Olori Ebis, particularly those who have preserved the dignity, harmony and unity of the Bubiade Royal Family over the years.
He also acknowledged the kings of Ijebuland, the Otunbas, Chiefs and custodians of Ijebu customs and heritage for their loyalty and support to the late Awujale.
He commended the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Dr Sonny Kuku, for his service as Regent during the interregnum, and appreciated Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for infrastructural, educational, cultural and economic developments in Ijebuland.
Expressing optimism about the future of the kingdom, Olufeko said, “With unity and collective effort, Ijebuland will rise to a new level of greatness.”
PUNCH Online reports that different princes, individuals, and ruling houses have been declaring interest in the Awujale throne, suggesting indications that the process of installing a replacement or new monarch might be in place.
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