Oba Sikiru Adetona, Awujale of Ijebuland, has warned kingmakers in the land not to politicise the selection of his successor.
Speaking at the 2019 edition of the Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun state, the monarch, who clicks 60 years on the throne next January, urged them to ensure that they pick the most qualified candidate to “continue the tradition of love and unity in Ijebuland”.
He said moneybags who could derail the peace of the town must not be considered for the stool.
The awujale, who noted that death was inevitable, insisted that a proper selection process must be adhered to in choosing his successor.
“When I eventually go, please go for a capable successor. Reject any candidate that will put Ijebuland into retrogression,” he said.
“Do not politicise the process of selecting my successor. Do not go for people that will draw Ijebu backwards.
“If the next ruling house does not present a viable candidate, please reject them and go for the next ruling house with capable candidate.
“Do not go for moneybags that will destroy the achievements Ijebuland has recorded so far. My prayer is that Ijebuland will continue to grow from strength to strength. God will give you direction when picking my successor; ask God to guide you.”
Dapo Abiodun, governor of the state, as well as Segun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, former governors of Ogun, were in attendance.
Lamidi Adeyemi, alafin of Oyo, was among other dignitaries.
