The Awujale and Paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Ogun State, on Tuesday received thousands of sons and daughters of Ijebu extraction in Ijebu – Ode at this year Ojude Oba cultural festival/carnival, advising them to “go for a capable successor” when ever he joins his ancestors.
The Octogenarian ascended the throne in 1960 at the age of 25, and hailed from the Anikinaiya Ruling family.
There are indications that the ruling House to produce the next Awujale when the stool becomes vacant is the Fusengbuwa Ruling House; where the founder of the First City Monument Bank(FCMB); Otunba Subomi Balogun, is the Olori Ebi (Head).
Oba Adetona, the Ogbagba 11 and who is often referred to as Orisa Ijebu (god of Ijebu), apparently not desirous of having Ijebuland slide into retrogression after over five decades of witnessing monumental progress and developments coupled with enviable peace and unity, urged his people to sustain the tempo by ensuring that the stool does not go to the money bags.
The revered monarch gave the advice while delivering his speech at the conclusion of this year Ojude Oba.
He urged Ijebu sons and daughters to reject any candidate for the position of the Awujale that could set Ijebuland backward.
In attendance at this year edition of the Ojude Oba cultural festival where over 25,000 people physically participated in the carnival, included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, Governor Dapo Abiodun, his wife; Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Deputy Governor Noimot Oyedele – Salako, former Governor Segun Osoba, ex – Governor Gbenga Daniel, former Deputy Governor Segun Adesegun, Sir Kensington Adebutu(who was the Special guest of honour), Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Olori Kemi Adetona among others.
The Awujale who spoke in Yoruba language, advised that the process of selecting the next Awujale should not be politicised, stressing that if the next ruling house does not present a viable candidate, the people should reject them and go for the next ruling house with capable candidate.
Oba Adetona said: “When I eventually go, please go for a capable successor. Reject any candidate that will put Ijebuland into retrogression.
“Do not politicise the process of selecting my successor. Do not go for people that will draw Ijebu backwards.
“If the next ruling house do not present a viable candidate, please reject them and go for the next ruling house with capable candidate.
“Do not go for Money bags that will destroy the achievements Ijebuland has recorded so far.
“My prayer is that Ijebuland will continue to grow from strength to strength.
“Call on God for direction when picking my successor. Ask God to guide you.”