The succession battle for the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland has taken a new dimension following the formal declaration of Fuji icon, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, K1 De Ultimate, to contest for the vacant throne.

Emerging documents show that K1, who is 67 and widely known for his cultural influence across Yorubaland, submitted his intention through a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House.

In the letter, the musician stated that his application aligns fully with the Ijebu customary laws and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws guiding the succession process for the Awujale stool.

According to him, his aspiration is backed by royal ancestry. He noted that he is a direct descendant of the Oba Jadiara lineage of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, a branch recognised by tradition to present candidates for the throne.

K1 further stressed that his birth on March 3, 1957, and his family roots in Agunsebi Quarters qualify him to seek consideration under established Ijebu rotation rules.

Beyond genealogy, the Fuji legend highlighted his long-standing contributions to the promotion of Ijebu, Yoruba, and Nigerian culture through his music career which spans more than 50 years.

His letter also recalled several honours he has received, including his installation as Mayegun of Yorubaland in 2020, the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger in 2022, and traditional titles conferred by the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona.

Meanwhile, the Ijebu-Ode Local Government had earlier triggered the selection process after issuing a formal notice to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House requesting the submission of nominees within 14 days.

The notice, signed on behalf of the chairman, Oke Adebanjo, also restated the procedure for the rites, including the ceremonial movement of the Awujale’s Staff of Office scheduled for December 2, 2025.

His letter also recalled several honours he has received, including his installation as Mayegun of Yorubaland in 2020, the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger in 2022, and traditional titles conferred by the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona.

Meanwhile, the Ijebu-Ode Local Government had earlier triggered the selection process after issuing a formal notice to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House requesting the submission of nominees within 14 days.

The notice, signed on behalf of the chairman, Oke Adebanjo, also restated the procedure for the rites, including the ceremonial movement of the Awujale’s Staff of Office scheduled for December 2, 2025.

The council advised the ruling house to ensure that the exercise is conducted peacefully and in full compliance with Ijebu traditions and rotational guidelines.

Before K1’s entry, the succession race had attracted other contenders such as a 45-year-old prince from the Adeberu lineage, Olaseni Ottun, as well as engineer and entrepreneur, Otunba Babatunde Alatise.

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House is now expected to review all applications and forward its nominated candidates to the Ijebu-Ode Local Government within the stipulated timeframe.

The Pinpoint News