An Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode has issued a stern warning to all parties involved in the ongoing legal battle over the Awujale stool, urging them to refrain from any actions that could compromise the court proceedings or alter the current situation. The warning came from Justice A. A. Omoniyi during a session on September 2, 2026, concerning a suit filed by the Fusengbuwa ruling house regarding the succession process for the vacant Awujale stool and the Paramount Rulership of Ijebuland.

The legal dispute arose following the death of the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away in July 2025 at the age of 91 after a remarkable 65-year reign. The Fusengbuwa ruling house has challenged the suspension of the succession process, asserting that they had fulfilled their responsibilities by completing their internal nomination exercise within the legally prescribed timeframe.

During the court proceedings, Otunba Olusegun Otayemi, representing the Fusengbuwa ruling house, requested the court to issue an order that would prevent any party from taking actions that could alter the status quo while the case is pending. Justice Omoniyi acknowledged the request but emphasized that there was no immediate evidence suggesting that either party would act against the court's directives. However, he made it clear that any party found in violation of the court's instructions would be required to revert to their previous position.

In support of maintaining the court's authority, Kunle Kalejaiye, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria representing the kingmakers, cautioned against any actions that could be deemed as disobedience to the court's directives. He referenced the legal precedent set in Ojukwu v. Governor of Lagos State, highlighting the expectation that parties involved in a lawsuit respect the judicial process and avoid actions that could undermine an injunction.

The Fusengbuwa ruling house's legal action, initiated on August 21, 2026, seeks clarity on whether the Ogun State Government possesses the legal authority to halt or interfere with the selection process for the Awujale. They are also questioning the applicability of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law 2021 concerning government intervention in the nomination and selection process.

As the case unfolds, Justice Omoniyi has returned the file to the administrative judge for reassignment, with the next hearing scheduled for September 23, 2026. This ongoing legal battle underscores the complexities surrounding traditional leadership succession in Ijebuland, a matter of significant cultural and political importance to the community.