Ijebuland stands at a historic crossroads. The Awujale stool—symbol of tradition, moral authority, and unity—remains vacant. The late Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, left behind a throne of global stature, cultural pride, and moral responsibility. The task now is to select a leader capable of upholding that legacy.
Amid public scrutiny, stage-managed protests, and political pressures, one name continues to emerge: Prince (omoba) Abimbola Onabanjo of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.
Unlike aspirants chasing headlines, Onabanjo’s record speaks in action, not hype. Over the years, he has supported over 25 schools with educational materials and infrastructure.
Rehabilitated roads and improved local amenities.
Led youth empowerment and community welfare initiatives.
He does this quietly, earning respect from Afobajes, Olórí-Ebí, traditional custodians, and ordinary Ijebus, both locally and globally.
Street-level credibility follows service over self-interest, a quality many believe is essential for the next Awujale.
Prince Onabanjo has refused to self-declare as Awujale-elect, despite insinuations circulating through known sponsored propaganda aimed at discrediting his rising profile among other contenders.
He sincerely respects Afobajes, Olórí-Ẹbí, and customary processes, even amid government oversight, petitions, and alleged political interference.
This calm, disciplined posture signals maturity, emotional intelligence, and readiness—a stark contrast to stage-managed narratives and pressure tactics seen elsewhere. It also demonstrates that he understands: the throne is bigger than any individual ambition.
Responsible media reporting has been crucial. It has exposed propaganda targeting the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Oloriebi’s and the Interregnum Traditional Council, plus Awujale’s palace.
Highlighted attempts to manipulate public opinion, even though alleged to be stage-managed protests. Kept the conversation grounded in lineage, service, and readiness, rather than rumour. Through media vigilance, the public sees the succession as it should be a test of merit, not noise.
Across Ijebuland and the diaspora, Onabanjo’s approach resonates deeply. His blend of modern leadership, traditional respect, and community service appeals to both younger and older generations. The streets recognise integrity. The councils recognise discipline. The diaspora sees continuity and renewal. Together, this forms a strong base of public and cultural endorsement.
The Afobajes and Interregnum Council now face a historic responsibility: to choose leaders based on merit, character, and readiness, not political convenience. Government oversight should remain facilitative, not intrusive.
Prince Abimbola Onabanjo’s record—unblemished, disciplined, and service-driven—aligns perfectly with these criteria. He stands prepared to preserve the Awujale stool’s dignity, unite the people, and uphold Ijebuland’s global stature.
This is a defining moment. History will remember those who upheld tradition, respected merit, and aligned leadership with the people’s trust. In streets, councils, and diaspora homes alike, Prince Abimbola Onabanjo has already earned a place in that legacy—a figure of credibility, discipline, and endearment in Ijebuland.
Oyesanya Sylvester, a freelance writer, writes from Lagos
