Afobaje Meeting and the Awujale Stool: A Moment of Watchful Transition in Ijebuland - Sponsored Post

The caricature circulating widely captures a tense but familiar moment in the history of Ijebuland. Seated around a table are the Afobajes, custodians of tradition and kingmakers, deep in discussion. Above them hangs the sign “Awujale Stool Succession.” To the side, a figure labelled “State Government” watches closely through binoculars.

The message is clear: this is not an ordinary meeting, and these are not ordinary times.

With the Awujale stool once again at the centre of public attention, Ijebuland finds itself at a delicate intersection of tradition, law, and modern governance. The process of kingship succession, historically guided by custom and ancestral protocols, is unfolding under intense public scrutiny — from indigenes at home and in the diaspora, cultural stakeholders, and government authorities alike.

The Afobaje institution occupies a sacred role. It is entrusted with preserving continuity, legitimacy, and peace in the selection of a new Awujale. Their deliberations are expected to be guided not by personal interests, external pressure, or political calculations, but by Ijebu tradition, documented customs, and collective wisdom.

Yet, as the caricature subtly suggests, the atmosphere is charged. The watchful presence of government reflects a modern reality: traditional institutions no longer operate in isolation. Legal frameworks, public order considerations, and political sensitivities now hover around processes that were once strictly internal.

This dual oversight — ancestral and governmental — has fueled conversations across Ijebuland. Some fear undue interference; others argue that oversight ensures transparency and stability. What remains undisputed is that any misstep could deepen divisions or undermine the legitimacy of the eventual outcome.

The food on the table in the image is symbolic. It represents communal heritage — something meant to nourish all, not divide. The pointing fingers and tense faces reflect disagreement, debate, and the weight of responsibility resting on the Afobajes’ shoulders.

At its core, the Awujale stool is more than a seat of power. It is a symbol of identity, unity, and continuity for the Ijebu people. The ongoing discussions remind everyone involved that history is watching, and so are future generations.

As Ijebuland navigates this transition, the call is simple but profound:

Let tradition lead.

Let wisdom prevail.

Let peace remain non-negotiable.

Because when the dust settles, the true victory will not be who ascends the stool, but whether Ijebuland emerges united, dignified, and faithful to its heritage.

Written and Prepared by Modupe Marvy Creatives