Ogun Police Deny Hoodlums Besieged Awujale Palace, Explain Security Deployment

The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports that hoodlums laid siege to the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu-Ode, describing the police presence at the palace as a precautionary security measure.

The command said the deployment was aimed at maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and preventing any breakdown of law and order amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the selection of a new Awujale.

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The police spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that an Assistant Commissioner of Police had been assigned to coordinate security arrangements at the palace.

According to the command, the security deployment should not be interpreted as evidence of an invasion or siege by suspected hoodlums.

The police also addressed reports concerning Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden, a member of the Awujale kingmakers’ council.

Babaseyi explained that Adaran was invited by the police following a petition against him and that he honoured the invitation.

The traditional chief was subsequently interrogated and released on self-recognisance, while investigations into the petition continue.

“The invitation was part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt,” the statement said.

The command assured residents that its officers would carry out their responsibilities without bias and in accordance with the law, while respecting the rights of all individuals involved.

It also urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and avoid spreading information capable of escalating tension in Ijebu-Ode and other parts of Ogun State.

Awujale Succession Dispute Continues

The clarification comes amid tensions surrounding the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025.

The revered traditional stool has remained vacant since his death, with the succession process reportedly affected by legal and political disagreements among stakeholders.

The Awujale succession has attracted considerable attention in Ijebuland, as kingmakers and other interested parties remain involved in the process of selecting a successor to the late monarch.