Get Guardian on GoogleTraditional chiefs in Ijebu-Ode have resolved to dissolve the existing positions held by members of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council (AIAC) and transition into a reconstituted traditional administrative body known as the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council.
The decision followed deliberations involving the Ilamurem, Pampa, the Odi and other senior chiefs of Ijebu-Ode, according to a resolution contained in a letter seen by Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu.
The resolution, signed by Olo’rgun Dr Sonny Kuku, chairman of the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council, sets out a proposed administrative arrangement for Ijebu-Ode following the death of the immediate past Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Dr Sikiru Kayode Adetona.
In reaching their decision, the chiefs noted that the Ogun State Chiefs Law of 2021 does not expressly provide for an Awujale Regency Council or stipulate a general procedure for appointing a regent during an interregnum.
They also argued that the Chiefs Law, alongside the 1957 Declaration, provides an existing framework for customary declarations and recognition, including the traditional institution of the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council.
Following the deliberations, a motion calling for all members of the AIAC to relinquish their existing positions and transition into the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council was moved and unanimously adopted.
Under the proposed arrangement, the new council is expected to oversee the administration of Ijebu-Ode during the interregnum, exercising on an interim basis such administrative powers and functions as may be considered necessary in the absence of the Awujale, subject to applicable laws, customs and traditions.
The proposed 14-member council comprises Olo’rgun Dr Sonny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja; Chief Rasheed Adesanya, Olisa; Chief O B Okuboyejo, Obasewa; Chief Chris Funmilola Okunowo, Bobasuwa; and Chief Professor Jide Ajayi, Jagun Aso.
Other members are Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, Olootu Olowa; Chief Jimi Lawal, Olotu Ifore; Chief Kunle Ogunade, Apebi; Chief Mrs B O Osibogun, Iyalode; Chief Adegoke Balogun, Jaginrin; Chief Agboola Alausa, Balogun; Chief Abimbola Okenla, Kakanfo; Chief Adebisi Adaran, Ogbeni Odi Awujale; and Chief Ayotunde Ola Odulaja, Lapoekun.
The resolution describes the council as the traditional administrative body responsible for managing the affairs of Ijebu-Ode in accordance with relevant laws, customary practices and established traditions of Ijebuland.
It said the proposed arrangement was designed to guarantee administrative continuity, preserve stability and maintain an orderly traditional governance structure while the community awaits the emergence and installation of a substantive Awujale of Ijebuland.
The chiefs maintained that their decision was consistent with the customs, culture and traditions of the Ijebu people, over whom the Awujale serves as paramount ruler.
