The Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu-Ode, which is next in line to produce the Awujale of Ijebuland following the passing of the late Oba Sikiru .Kayode Adetona of the Anikilaya Ruling House, has officially signaled its readiness by rolling out the traditional Gbedu drums.
The drumming ceremony, held on Thursday, is a significant cultural tradition that marks the intention of the next eligible ruling house to present a candidate for the Awujale stool.
Addressing journalists at the event, the Olori-Ebi (head of the family), Prince Otunba Adedokun Ajidagba, stated that the family is fully prepared to present a qualified and worthy candidate from among its Princes. He appealed to all family members to unite and support the selection process.
“In Ijebu-Ode, we have four ruling houses: Anikilaya, Fusengbuwa, Fidipote, and Gbelegbuwa. The last Awujale was from Anikilaya, and now it is the turn of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, which I currently lead,” Ajidagba explained.
“It is our tradition to beat the Gbedu drums immediately after the demise of an Awujale, signaling the next ruling house to produce a successor. This event is part of the spiritual and traditional process of selecting the next monarch.”
Ajidagba added that the family had received a certificate of affirmation from the Ijebu-Ode Local Government in 2023, officially recognizing Fusengbuwa as a legitimate ruling house.
He also called on the state government to refrain from interfering in the family’s selection process and emphasized the importance of unity within the family. “Whoever emerges must be accepted by all and must uphold the traditions of Ijebu,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Prince Adeleke Adeyemi, who serves as the General Secretary for both the four ruling houses and the Fusengbuwa family, said he has maintained accurate family records for over 20 years.
“It is our right and responsibility to present a qualified and respected prince with a strong background. The Fusengbuwa Ruling House comprises eight branches, all of which are represented here today and in full support of this process,” he noted.
Adeyemi praised the leadership of Prince Adedokun Ajidagba and affirmed that the family remains united in its mission.
The Olowa of Ijebu-Ode and Abore of Awujale, Chief Razaq Adeleye Osimodi, also lent his support, stating that the Gbedu ceremony has long been the tradition that identifies the rightful family to produce the next Awujale.
“I fully support the actions taken by the leaders of the Fusengbuwa family. While there are many interested candidates, only one will emerge, and the Ifa oracle will guide the family in making that decision,” he said.
In a similar vein, Prince Olaseni Samsideen Ottun described Ijebu as a kingdom rich in unique traditions and expressed joy at belonging to the next ruling house.
He added, “There is no division within the family. We are praying for divine guidance and protection for our elders and all family members as we move forward with this process.”
