DSS Grills 95 Awujale Hopefuls as Ogun Government Halts Selection Process Over Security Fears

The high-stakes race to occupy the prestigious throne of the Awujale of Ijebuland has taken a dramatic turn as the Ogun State Government ordered an immediate halt to the selection process, just as the Department of State Services (DSS) summoned nearly 100 royal hopefuls for questioning.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the planned “meet-and-greet” at the Palace in Ijebu-Ode—where kingmakers were expected to begin interacting with the candidates—was scrapped at the last minute. Instead, the 95 nominees from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were directed to report to the DSS office on NTA Road for what officials described as “security profiling.”

The State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs confirmed that the suspension was necessary to “protect the integrity of the stool.” The government cited a surge in petitions and intelligence reports suggesting that the selection process could lead to a breakdown of public order if not properly managed.

This development follows months of tension and legal threats, most notably from music legend Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1), who has been vocal about his exclusion from the race. The Fusengbuwa family recently presented a list of 94 princes and one princess, Oluwakemi Adetokunboh, to the kingmakers, led by the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, Chief Sonny Kuku.

“We are acting proactively to forestall any breakdown of law and order,” stated Ganiyu Hamzat, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. He emphasized that given the 65-year legendary reign of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona, the eyes of the world are on Ijebuland, and the government cannot afford a flawed succession.

As of Wednesday afternoon, heavy security was seen around the palace and key locations in Ijebu-Ode to prevent any unauthorized gatherings. While the kingmakers have expressed their willingness to cooperate, the 95 candidates must now clear the security vetting process before the race can resume.