How Awujale stool controversy could cost Yayi Ogun Governorship seat in 2027
By ABANIKANDA OLUMORO (UK)
The message from culturally conscious Ogun indigenes should not be ignored: any politician seeking the state’s highest office must understand that traditional institutions are not instruments for settling political scores or rewarding loyalists.
The unfolding debate over the succession to the revered Awujale stool of Ijebuland could become a major political test for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as he eyes the Ogun State governorship seat in 2027.
For many culturally conscious indigenes of Ogun State, the Awujale institution represents far more than a traditional throne. It embodies the history, identity, ancestry and collective pride of the Ijebu people. Any perceived attempt to subordinate its customs and traditions to partisan political interests could therefore attract resistance beyond the palace walls.
The concern among those expressing reservations is that the approach allegedly associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of traditional institutions in Lagos State could be replicated in Ijebuland, being that Yayi happening to Ogun State politics is by Tinubu’s influence especially when the true blood of the soil are vehemently resisting the claims of his indigeneity to the state.
They fear that political influence, rather than established customary requirements and legitimate royal lineage, could determine who eventually occupies the Awujale stool.
Although the allegations and concerns surrounding the succession process require careful examination against the applicable customs and laws, the political implications cannot be dismissed.
Yayi, who is widely associated with the ambition to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun, could find himself caught in the middle of this sensitive cultural debate. If sections of the Ijebu people come to believe that he is supporting the imposition of a politically favoured candidate over a legitimately entitled royal descendant, the controversy could undermine his standing among voters who regard cultural heritage as non-negotiable.
In a state where traditional institutions remain influential in community life, political ambition cannot always override ancestral legitimacy. The Awujale stool is not an ordinary political appointment to be determined by campaign calculations, personal relationships or the influence of powerful individuals. Its succession must command respect through adherence to the established customs, traditions and legal procedures governing the institution.
For Yayi, the danger is that a controversy over a traditional throne could evolve into a wider question about his political judgment, respect for indigenous institutions and understanding of the people whose votes he needs.
However, it would be premature to conclude that the dispute will automatically cost him the governorship election. Electoral outcomes depend on several factors, including party strength, campaign organisation, public policy positions and voters’ assessments of competing candidates.
Nevertheless, the message from culturally conscious Ogun indigenes should not be ignored: any politician seeking the state’s highest office must understand that traditional institutions are not instruments for settling political scores or rewarding loyalists.
If Yayi is to strengthen his 2027 prospects, he must demonstrate respect for the Awujale institution and avoid any action that could be interpreted as an attempt to politicise its succession. How he will achieve this in the face of reality that Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun, backing him on this governorship ambition, are already seen in the anti-culture allegations.
Ultimately, the future of the Awujale stool should be determined through the legitimate customary and legal process, not the calculations of politicians. For whoever seeks to govern Ogun State, respect for the people’s heritage may prove just as important as the ability to win their votes.
