Security Screening Halts Palace Meeting as DSS Summons Awujale Nominees

In a surprising twist in the selection process for the next Awujale, the traditional rites and administrative proceedings have shifted from the palace to the offices of national security. The Awujale Kingmakers Council officially announced the cancellation of a high-profile “meet-and-greet” session that was originally slated to take place at the historic Aafin Awujale. This sudden change in itinerary has sparked significant conversation across Ijebu-Ode and the wider political landscape of Ogun State.

The directive, which emerged through a formal communication dated January 20, 2026, redirected all prospective nominees to a different kind of vetting. Instead of the traditional palace grounds, the aspirants were instructed to report to the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Ijebu-Ode. This move indicates that the security apparatus is taking a central role in the screening process, likely to ensure that all candidates meet the stringent background requirements for such a prestigious stool.

Recipients of this urgent notice included the leadership of the Fusengbuwa ruling house. Specifically, the message was addressed to Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, the Chairman; his deputy, Otunba Dokun Ajidagba; and the Vice Chairman, Prof. Fassy Yusuf. By involving the leaders of the ruling house, the Kingmakers Council has signaled that the transition to a security-led screening is a formal requirement that cannot be bypassed by any aspirant or family head.

The specific location for this meeting was identified as the DSS facility situated along NTA Road, adjacent to the State Psychiatric Hospital, just off Igbeba Road. The timing was set for 11:00 am, with an emphasis on strict punctuality. The shift from the cultural ambiance of the Aafin to the clinical, high-security environment of the SSS office suggests a rigorous level of scrutiny for those hoping to ascend the throne.

Chief Ayotunde Ola Odulaja, the Secretary of the Awujale Afobaje Council, was the signatory of the directive. In the letter, he expressed sincere apologies for the last-minute disruption and any inconvenience caused to the nominees and their entourages. However, the tone of the letter left little room for negotiation, urging all involved to comply strictly with the new arrangement.

The cancellation of the palace engagement is a notable departure from standard traditional procedures, where candidates are usually presented to the kingmakers in a more public and celebratory atmosphere. By prioritizing the DSS invitation, the Kingmakers Council appears to be prioritizing national security clearances and “character mapping” before proceeding with the more traditional aspects of the selection.

This development comes at a time of heightened interest in the succession of the Awujale throne. Given the influence and history of the monarchy, the selection of a successor is always a matter of both local pride and national importance. The involvement of the DSS at this stage suggests that the authorities are keen on maintaining law and order while ensuring that the eventual choice is beyond reproach from a security perspective.

As the nominees gathered at the NTA Road facility on Wednesday morning, the atmosphere in Ijebu-Ode remained one of cautious expectation. The Fusengbuwa ruling house, which is currently at the center of the selection process, has been working to ensure a smooth transition. The intervention of the state security service adds a layer of modern governance to a process that is centuries old, blending tradition with contemporary administrative requirements.

For the residents of Ijebuland, the primary hope remains a peaceful and credible selection process. While the shift from the palace to the DSS office was unexpected, many see it as a necessary step in the current political climate to prevent future disputes or litigations. The focus now turns to the outcome of these security screenings and how they will shape the final list of candidates presented to the kingmakers for the ultimate decision.