..appeals for Unity, Harmonization
The chairman of the four ruling houses that produce the Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu-Ode, Prince Mabadeje Alaga, who also serves as Olori-Ebi of the Anikilaya Ruling House, has appealed to the two factions of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to reconcile and work together toward a common goal.
In an open letter released to journalists on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, and personally signed by him, Prince Mabadeje urged unity within the Fusengbuwa family. The letter, titled “A Candid Appeal To Fusengbuwa Ruling House,” was copied to Prince Adedokun Ajidagba and Chief Lateef Owoyemi, both prominent members of the Fusengbuwa lineage.
The statement reads in part:
My dear Princes and Chief,
“I, Alhaji Prince Taheeb Mabadeje Alaga, Head of the Anikilaya Ruling House and Chairman of the Ijebu-Ode Four Ruling Houses, write this open letter with the deepest sense of duty and love for our heritage.
“It saddens me to hear of the present disagreement within the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, our next ruling house to produce the Awujale of Ijebuland; following the glorious reign and recent passing of our beloved Awujale, Oba (Dr.) S. K. Adetona, himself of our Anikilaya Ogbagba family, where I humbly serve as Olori Ebi.
“I have known Prince Adedokun Ajidagba for more than forty years, and I have also long known Chief Lateef Owoyemi. Though our paths have not always intertwined, I hold you both in high regard.
“By the mercy of Almighty Allah, I am blessed to be eighty-two years of age. At this stage of life, truth is my only guide; I have no cause to bend or compromise it. My earnest counsel is that unity must prevail. The Fusengbuwa family is large and richly blessed, and no ancestor would rejoice to see his children divided over a seat of leadership.
“We all witnessed the peace and dignity that marked the tenure of our late Awujale. Let us honour that example. I implore the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to deliberate together and present a worthy, consensus candidate for the revered stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
“A people without memory of history are easily lost. Today’s actions will be tomorrow’s record. May our contributions be remembered for wisdom, not discord.
“Therefore, I humbly and prayerfully appeal to you both and to all concerned factions to reconcile and unite for the sake of our descendants and to the glory of our ancestors. History will never forget the commitment you show in this moment.
“This is my plea, spoken as a brother and elder of a family; may Almighty Allah guide your hearts and grant you the wisdom to act in peace.
“With profound respect and blessings”,
