Awujale directs Ijebu kingmakers on what to do after his death -

The Awujale and Paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona warned kingmakers in the ancient town to shun politics in the selection of his successor after his death.

Oba Adetona said this on Wednesday during this year Ojude-Oba held at Oba Adetona Pavilion, Ijebu-Ode, which was attended by dignitaries such as the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, among others.

The 85-year-old monarch, who was installed in 1960, expressed his worry that can’t guarantee his presence at next year’s Ojude-Oba festival.

Oba Adetona, who spoke in Yorùbá language 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 does not present a viable candidate, please, reject him, and go for the next ruling house with a capable candidate.

“Do not go for moneybags that will destroy the achievements that Ijebuland has recorded so far.

“Call on God for direction when picking my successor. Ask God to guide you.”

Speaking on his government activities, Governor Abiodun said, “Let me state that as a responsible government, we need to know where we are coming from for us to be able to know where we are heading to.

“So, we need to ensure that whatever we do is not just done, but done well without allowing for distractions from any quarters.”