Some contestants from Funsengbuwa ruling House have demanded strict adherence to laid-down guidelines in the ongoing selection process for the next Awujale, urging the kingmakers to crown worthy candidate, ‘Omo Oye’.

Speaking on behalf of the contestants on Monday at a forum of blood descendants of Jadiara in Ijebu-Ode, Barrister Adebowale Olufeko said that due process must be followed in the selection of a new monarch to fill the vacant Awujale throne.

Olufeko, who is also one of the contestants vying for the throne of Awujale, said the purpose of the meeting was not to sabotage the efforts of stakeholders and the government in the selection process, but to support effective procedures.

He expressed concern that those contesting for the empty throne remained committed to tradition and constituted authority, insisting that their top priority was to ensure transparency, fairness and respect for established customs.

The lawyer lauded the Olori Ebis of all ruling houses, especially the Head of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Alhaji Fatai Owoyemi, and the kingmakers, appealing to them to ensure they followed due process in presenting a worthy candidate ‘Omo Oye’ to the people of Ijebuland as the next Awujale

He, however, commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for steps taken to ensure the Fusengbuwa Ruling House produces the next Awujale, and for ongoing infrastructure projects, including the recent commissioning of the Abeokuta Road/New Road.

Olufeko said, “This gathering recognises that we are critical stakeholders in the process. Our objective is to examine the process, share ideas and articulate our collective position with decorum, wisdom and unity.

“This is not a political campaign. We are family. At the end of the day, only one person will emerge as Awujale, but we are bound by a higher obligation to the peace, unity and development of Ijebu land.

“A communiqué reflecting the candidates’ collective position would be forwarded to the Ogun State Government and the Presidency.

“The forum, tagged Candidates’ Voices, reinforced the commitment of all contenders to peace, unity and orderly succession in line with tradition and law.”