Ijebu chiefs have dissolved the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council, directing its members to relinquish their current positions and transition into the Adele Oba Awujale in Council as part of a new traditional administrative arrangement for Ijebu-Ode.

According to a letter, the resolution, which was reached at a meeting of the Ilamurem, Pampa, the Odi and other chiefs of Ijebu-Ode, was signed by the chairman of the Adele Oba Awujale in Council, Olo’rgun Dr Sonny Kuku.

The resolution followed deliberations on the administrative structure of Ijebu-Ode during the interregnum occasioned by the demise of the immediate past Awujale of Ijebuland, Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

The chiefs noted that the Ogun State Chiefs Law of 2021 did not expressly establish an Awujale Regency Council or stipulate a general procedure for the appointment of a regent.

They, however, observed that the Chiefs Law and Declaration of 1957 provided an existing framework for customary declarations and recognition, including the traditional institution of the Adele Oba Awujale in Council.

It stated that, “Consequently, a motion was moved and unanimously adopted for members of the AIAC to step down from their existing positions and transition into the Adele Oba Awujale in Council.

“Under the proposed arrangement, the council is expected to oversee the administration of Ijebu-Ode during the interregnum and exercise interim administrative powers and functions deemed necessary in the absence of the Awujale, subject to applicable laws, customs and traditions.”

The 14-member council comprises Sonny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja; Rasheed Adesanya, Olisa; O.B. Okuboyejo, Obasewa; Chris Funmilola Okunowo, Bobasuwa; and Jide Ajayi, Jagun Aso.

Others include Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, Olootu Olowa; Jimi Lawal, Olotu Ifore; Kunle Ogunade, Apebi; B.O. Osibogun, Iyalode; Adegoke Balogun, Jaginrin; Agboola Alausa, Balogun; Abimbola Okenla, Kakanfo; Adebisi Adaran, Ogbeni Odi Awujale; and Ayotunde Ola Odulaja, Lapoekun.

The chiefs explained that, “The resolution stated that the council would serve as the traditional administrative body responsible for managing the affairs of Ijebu-Ode in accordance with applicable laws, customary practices and established traditions of Ijebuland.”

The arrangement, according to the resolution, was designed to ensure continuity, stability and an orderly traditional administrative structure pending the emergence and installation of a substantive Awujale of Ijebuland.

The chiefs further maintained that the decision was consistent with the traditions, culture and customs of the Ijebu people, over whom the Awujale is the paramount ruler.