Ayomide Olaniyan
The Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode, poised to select the next Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State, has directed renowned Fuji artist Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1) and other aspirants to validate their ancestral ties by submitting detailed genealogical records.
In a formal declaration dated December 3, 2025, KWAM 1 asserted his eligibility for the royal seat, affirming his status as a bona fide descendant of the Fusengbuwa lineage while citing adherence to traditional and state chieftaincy regulations.
Chairman of the ruling house, Abdulateef Owoyemi—former head of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria—disclosed that aspirants, including KWAM 1, must authenticate their heritage by tracing ancestry across seven generations via the Fusengbuwa royal lineage form.
Owoyemi stressed that the verification process prevents outsiders from usurping the throne, stating, “Only those confirmed as true descendants will advance to the expression-of-interest phase. The lineage form is our safeguard.” Despite the December 5 deadline, KWAM 1 received an extension until December 10.
The selection timeline outlined by Owoyemi includes:
- 14 days for candidate nominations (ending December 18)
- 7 days for kingmakers’ deliberations
- 21 days for government vetting, with final approval anticipated by mid-January 2026
Owoyemi reiterated the ruling house’s commitment to transparency, noting, “Influence must honor heritage. We’ll protect our lineage while ensuring a credible succession.” The process aims to conclude with coronation rites following the governor’s official proclamation.
Oluwaseun Adeyemi
