Femi mebude
......Funsegbuwa Ruling House Gbas Gbos
Prince Samuel Olawunmi Anikinaiya wrote
According to tradition, individuals of high status, wealth, or influence are not typically considered for the position of Awujale, as per records in the Awujale of Ijebuland file at the National Archives.
A reflection of humble Kings and disciples of past Awujales, including:
- Awujale Fusengbuwa, a hunter and herbalist
- Awujale Anikinaiya, an Ifa priest
- Awujale Fidipote, a native doctor
- Awujale Adeleke Ogbagba, a palm wine tapper
- Awujale Oba Daniel Adesanya, a tailor
- Prince Adenaiya Eniafe, a barber who relinquished his selection to Awujale Adetona
- Awujale Sikiru Olukayode Adetona, an undergraduate
These examples illustrate that the position of Awujale has historically been filled by individuals from various walks of life with no financial consequence. Big men do not become Awujale.
The case of the late Prince Odufunade and Chief Timothy Odutola comes to mind.
The late Awujale Sikiru Olukayode Adetona emphasized that wealth and connections are not criteria for the position, stating that "no money bags or political candidates" should be appointed as the next Awujale.
As a custodian of history and tradition, his statement carries significant weight.
