Ijebu-Ode residents have peacefully protested in opposition to the Ogun State government’s decision to halt the selection process for alleged irregularities in the area’s selection process for a new traditional ruler.
The protest came after the selection process for a new Ijebuland was suspended.
The demonstrators marched through major streets in the ancient town while carrying placards with inscriptions urging a free, fair, and transparent selection process under the auspices of Ijebu Sons and Daughters and Ijebu-Ode Progressive Youths.
The Chairman, Dare Alebiosu, addressed the crowd at the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat.
The chairman explained to the protesters that the Ogun State Government had no preference for a candidate and that the suspension was only intended to ensure strict compliance with the law.
Awujale: Ogun LG Stops the Selection Process
He claimed that the government isn’t concerned with the identity of the Awujale in the end. The selection process was made to ensure fairness and transparency.
He praised the protesters’ peaceful behavior and assured them that the selection process that would eventually lead to the creation of a new Awujale would soon resume. It would also reflect the people’s wishes and aspirations.  ,
A resident of the town Babatunde Salami said the demonstration was meant to send a clear message to the rulers to act responsibly.
The Awujale stool is regarded highly in Yoruba, Nigeria, and even beyond. We want the right rulers to make their choice for our nation. he stated
He continued, “We are here to demand that all laws be followed.” We don’t want moneybags to sabotage the process and make it pointless.
The protesters also urged contestants to receive equal treatment, noting that the traditional title should not be used as a justification for disqualification.
“We’ve heard bribery allegations against both the selection process and the contestants. Anyone found guilty must be punished by the government. We don’t want the procedure to be compromised, as it could lead to pointless litigation.
In addition, the Alagemos in Ijebuland have backed the Ogun State Government’s actions to ensure a smooth selection process.
The kingmakers should now sit down and go over the process in full transparency, according to the Funsengbuwa Ruling House.
Source: Channels TV
Leave a Reply