Ijebu Chiefs Take Ogun Governor to Court Over Traditional Leadership Dispute

The Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council has filed a lawsuit against Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and members of the newly formed Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council, challenging what they deem an unlawful attempt to disrupt the traditional governance of Ijebuland.

The suit, lodged at the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, names several defendants, including the Attorney-General and the Commissioner for Local Government, alongside members of the reconstituted council. 

The plaintiffs are seeking to affirm their authority over traditional matters during the interregnum following the death of the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

In their legal documents, the nine-member council, led by Dr. Sonny Kuku, argues that the Adele system is the only legitimate traditional authority recognized by Ijebu customs during transitions between Awujale reigns. 

They stress that the establishment of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council is inconsistent with local customs and the Ogun State Chiefs Law.

The plaintiffs are demanding a court declaration stating that neither the governor nor government agencies have the power to form or reconstitute any council that displaces the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council during this interregnum. 

They are also seeking to annul the reconstitution of the council and to prevent the defendants from interfering with their traditional administrative functions.

The case underscores a significant conflict within the Ijebu traditional leadership structure. 

Traditional chiefs have previously agreed to dissolve the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council to return authority to the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council, pending the appointment of a new Awujale.

Governor Abiodun's government has reaffirmed its legal authority to oversee traditional affairs during this interim period, rejecting claims that the Adele Oba Awujale-in-Council has any recognized role under existing laws. 

The Awujale throne became vacant in July 2025 following Oba Adetona's death, leading to a halted selection process for a successor due to procedural disputes.

 With numerous aspirants vying for the throne, the traditional leadership crisis has heightened tensions in Ijebu-Ode.

As the case unfolds, it raises questions about the balance of traditional authority and government intervention in chieftaincy matters in Ogun State. 

The outcome could have lasting implications for the governance of Ijebu land and its cultural heritage.