By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Fresh tension has emerged in the contest for the revered Awujale of Ijebu-Ode stool as the Jadiara Royal House has “formally disowned” the ancestral claims of prominent indigene and popular Fuji musician, Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Anifowose popularly called KWAM I or K1 De Ultimate, reports thegazellenews.com
The development came after the Fuji King publicly declared his interest in the vacant throne.
In a strongly worded letter dated December 7, 2025, and addressed to the leadership of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Otunba Prince Akinola Odedina, FCA, an accredited member of the Jadiara lineage, stated that Otunba Ayinde “has no genealogical lineage to the Jadiara Royal House.”
The letter was subsequently copied to key government and traditional authorities, including the Governor of Ogun State, the Attorney General, and the Awujale Interregnum Administration Council.
According to Odedina, the clarification became necessary after Otunba Ayinde announced his intention to contest the Awujale stool through the Jadiara Royal House.
Consequently, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House issued him a nomination form, expecting supporting documents to authenticate his stated lineage.
However, the letter explained that, “We in Jadiara Royal House have patiently waited for him to appear with his form and whatever documents he may have to prove his linkage… He is yet to show up.”
Odedina stressed that, because the matter had gradually become a subject of public interest, the family felt obligated to address the issue and would continue to provide updates as events unfold.
It would be recall that KWAM I, a well-known businessman and philanthropist, had earlier declared that he was qualified for the stool, “by blood and heritage.”
An eyewitness at his declaration event recalled that: “He spoke confidently many of us believed him because no one challenged his claim then.”
Since then, however, Otunba Ayinde has not released an official response to the genealogical controversy.
The unfolding development has triggered intense debate across Ijebu-Ode.
As reactions emerged from residents, traditional stakeholders, and civic groups, the community appeared increasingly divided.
A senior traditional custodian in the Itoro area, who preferred anonymity, remarked that:“The Awujale stool is not something anybody can just wake up and pursue. It is blood, history, and tradition.”
Meanwhile, a market leader at Oja Itoro expressed concern that the issue was already causing arguments among traders.“We beg the royal fathers and government to act quickly so this matter doesn’t divide the town,” she stated.
Similarly, youth leaders demanded openness in the verification process.
“Let everyone bring out their family records openly so the truth can be known”.
Another resident, who witnessed Ayinde’s declaration, noted that public sentiment has now shifted, saying:
“When he declared interest, people applauded. But now, this letter has changed everything.”
A community elder from Molipa area further warned that the matter could escalate if politicized: “Once money and politics enter kingship matters, trouble will follow. The gods of Ijebu do not joke with the Awujale stool.”
Legal observers believe that the involvement of the Governor, ministries, and the Interregnum Council indicates that the matter may proceed to formal scrutiny. This could lead to administrative verification of genealogical claims, rigorous screening of aspirants, or even judicial interpretation should disputes persist.
With multiple ruling houses expected to participate in the succession process, analysts predict that the coming weeks will witness: Intensified screening of aspirants, Strict verification of genealogical records, Possible arbitration by traditional and government authorities.
Ultimately, as Ijebu-Ode awaits clarity, the community continues to watch the unfolding events with keen interest, knowing the path to the next Awujale must be rooted in heritage, transparency, and tradition.
