Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Adesanya, widely known as K1, has formally petitioned Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun regarding his alleged exclusion from the nomination process for the vacant Awujale stool. K1’s legal counsel emphasized that the nomination must adhere to established due process for the sake of justice and the integrity of the succession. He is requesting a reconsideration of his preclusion from being considered for the significant traditional leadership role.
K1 alleges that the leadership within the ruling house is actively attempting to disenfranchise legitimate members who wish to participate in the selection process. This concern is a central point in his communication to the state government, highlighting potential irregularities that could undermine the fairness of the entire exercise. The musician’s legal team has detailed specific objections to the procedures being implemented.
How to ensure fair traditional leadership nominations? The key is to strictly follow established laws, customary declarations, and the guidance provided by local government authorities. Any deviation or the introduction of new, unwritten rules can lead to disputes and questions about the legitimacy of the chosen candidate.
In a letter dated January 8th, 2026, and addressed to Governor Abiodun, K1’s solicitors outlined their client’s grievances. They detailed how steps taken by the Ijebu Ode Local Government and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were perceived as wrongful and a departure from due process. The musician believes his rights are being infringed upon.
The musician further expressed his dissatisfaction with the ruling house’s directives, which included requirements for candidates to collect nomination forms and undergo screening by a panel. K1’s legal team argues that these instructions are not supported by the relevant Chieftaincy Declaration or the Obas and Chiefs Laws, making them appear arbitrary and potentially designed to exclude certain individuals.
What are the Obas and Chiefs Laws? These are legal frameworks within Nigerian states that govern the selection, installation, and responsibilities of traditional rulers. They provide a standardized process to ensure fairness and prevent disputes, outlining the rights and duties of ruling houses and the government.
The letter, aptly titled “Representation Against The Wrongful Attempts Not To Follow Due Process In The Nomination Of Candidates To Fill The Vacancy In The Stool Of Awujale of Ijebuland”, clearly articulates the legal objections. It serves as a formal notice to the Ogun State Executive Council about the perceived injustices.
According to the letter, the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government had previously directed the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to hold a meeting to nominate candidates within 14 days. This directive was issued on January 6th, 2026. However, subsequent actions by individuals claiming to represent the family introduced new procedures.
One such individual, Prince Adeleye Lateef Ademuyiwa, acting as the Public Relations Officer, issued a notice for candidates to pick up nomination cards and appear before a screening committee. This notice also specified a nomination exercise date of January 12th, 2026, and a delegate selection meeting for January 10th, 2026, at Bisrod Event Centre.
K1’s legal team highlighted their deep concern that these directives, which they deem illegal and absent from the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Laws, were incorporated into the family’s communication to the local government. This integration of questionable procedures is seen as a deliberate attempt to manipulate the outcome.
The core of K1’s concern lies in the perceived plan by the ruling house leadership to disenfranchise members eager to participate in the nomination exercise. The musician firmly believes that all members of the ruling house are entitled to attend the meeting and nominate candidates of their preference, emphasizing that a select group should not override these rights.
The legal representation stressed that the directive mandating candidate screening and nomination by delegates is not only contrary to the spirit of the Chieftaincy Declaration but also violates the Obas and Chiefs Laws of Ogun State 2021. This legal inconsistency forms the basis of their objection.
K1’s legal counsel urged Governor Abiodun to intervene promptly to address these fundamental issues. Their intervention is crucial to uphold the integrity of the entire nomination process and ensure that justice is served for all parties, including their client, who fears being unfairly excluded.
It is noteworthy that K1 had previously withdrawn a lawsuit filed at the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, which stemmed from the ruling house’s denial of his familial connection. This recent petition signals a continued commitment to ensuring fairness in the process.
Barring any unforeseen developments, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is slated to proceed with its nomination process at the Bisrod Event Centre in Ijebu Ode. The outcome of Governor Abiodun’s intervention will be keenly watched by all stakeholders involved in this significant traditional succession.
Kwam 1 vs Governor Abiodun: The legal battle over due process in traditional nominations is heating up. This situation highlights the importance of transparent and lawful procedures when selecting leaders, especially in contexts with deep cultural significance. The musician’s legal team is determined to ensure that the Awujale nomination adheres to the established laws of Ogun State, preventing any attempts to circumvent the rightful process.
