Otunba Engr. Babatunde Alatise Declares for Vacant Stool of Awujale of Ijebuland

 #Awujale's Stool Hopeful Update 

Otunba Babatunde Alatise, a descendant of the Bubiade Royal Family of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Agunsebi, Ijebu-Ode, officially declared his intention to contest for the vacant Stool of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, today 18th November 2025 at Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. 

The Press Conference was held at Alagbala Villa, 102B Luba–Eruwon Road, GRA, Ijebu-Ode, opposite Endurance Garden, and drew esteemed members of the Press, Traditional Rulers, Chiefs, Bubiade and Fusegbunwa Family Elders, opinion Leaders, and well-wishers.

Addressing attendees, Otunba Alatise described the occasion as a defining moment in the history of Ijebuland. He emphasized that his declaration is not driven by personal ambition but by a deep sense of duty to the heritage, traditions, and communities of Ijebuland. 

He stated that the Awujale stool is the soul of Ijebuland, representing honour, unity, cultural preservation, stability, and forward progression, and pledged to uphold its sacred trust with humility and dedication.

Subsequently, Otunba Alatise presented a comprehensive vision for Ijebuland, blending tradition with modernity, and focusing on sustainable development and inclusive governance. His key pillars include:

Preservation of Royal Heritage and Traditions: He promised to uphold the sanctity of the Awujale stool, strengthen traditional institutions, preserve festivals and customs, and ensure the royal lineage’s enduring legacy.

Economic Diversification and Sustainable Growth: Alatise highlighted mining and tourism as strategic drivers for prosperity, committing to responsibly harness natural resources, generate employment, expand local businesses, and position Ijebuland as a hub for mineral development and cultural tourism.

Community-Focused Mining Reforms: He proposed that mining companies sign and implement Community Development Agreements (CDAs), contribute a minimum of 5% of annual turnover to community projects, and participate in tax-credit programs supporting infrastructure development.

Global Expansion of Ijebu Tourism: He pledged to elevate the Ojude Oba Festival to an international cultural and economic event, establish an Ijebu Polo Club and Horse Breeding Centre, and host annual international polo tournaments to boost tourism, hospitality, and local business.

Infrastructure and Industrial Growth: Alatise emphasized modern road networks, public–private partnerships, and development of agricultural, technological, and mining logistics industries to attract local and foreign investment.

Youth Development and Economic Inclusion: He committed to skills acquisition programs, digital empowerment, entrepreneurship support, mentorship, and leadership initiatives to prepare Ijebu youths for global competitiveness.

Modern, Progressive, and Inclusive Traditional Governance: He vowed to blend cultural wisdom with contemporary leadership, promoting transparency, accountability, community participation, and unity across all Ijebu communities.

Global Representation and Strategic Partnerships: Leveraging experience with organizations such as INTERPOL, UNDP, and the U.S. State Department, Alatise pledged to attract international investment, development assistance, and opportunities for Ijebu youths, while promoting Ijebuland’s culture worldwide.

Unity, Peace, and Collective Prosperity: He underscored his commitment to fostering a united, peaceful, and progressive Ijebuland, ensuring that every community benefits from development initiatives.

In conclusion, Otunba Alatise expressed humility and readiness to serve as the next Awujale, offering himself as a custodian of heritage and a bridge between Ijebuland’s proud past and its future. 

He invoked divine guidance and ancestral blessings for the process, stating: “May Ijebuland continue to flourish in peace, harmony, and prosperity. 

In subsequent interviews that followed, Chief Fassy Yusuf, the Deputy Head of Oloriebi Fusegbunwa who initially during his Press Conference speech clarified some issues raising its head at public domain concerning his wholesome and sole support for Otunba Dr Kunle Hassan 

According to him there are other contenders for the same position and portfolio within his leadership umbrella as Deputy Head and Oloriebi of Funsegbuwa Ruling House. Hence, it isn't factual that Dr Hassan has been solely endorsed by him or anyone but that everyone interested will be giving level playing ground to showcase their respective capacity and capabilities about the Awujale's Stool 

He however stated that he has known Otunba Alatishe that is declaring today and can vouch for him concerning his quest to becoming Awujale of Ijebuland 

Report by Femi Mebude 

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