Fuji maestro Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has formally announced his intention to contest for the Awujale throne, positioning himself to become the next paramount ruler of Ijebuland.
The veteran musician stated that he is a rightful prince of the Fusengbuwa ruling house.
In a letter dated December 3, 2025, and addressed to the Fusengbuwa ruling house of Agunsebi Quarters, Ayinde explained that his interest in the revered stool is grounded in ancestry, cultural responsibility, and decades of service to Ijebuland and Yoruba heritage.
“I am a bona fide son of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Agunsebi Quarters, tracing my ancestry to the Oba Jadiara lineage, which qualifies me to present myself for consideration in accordance with established tradition,” he wrote.
The 67-year-old musician pointed to his long-standing contributions toward preserving Ijebu culture through his artistry and philanthropic efforts.
He referenced major recognitions he has received over the years, including his installation as Mayegun of Yorubaland in 2020 and his 2023 conferment by the late Awujale as Olori Omo-Oba and Otunba Afidipotemole of Akile Ijebu.
He is also a national honouree, having been awarded the Member of the Order of the Niger.
Ayinde clarified that his declaration aligns with the requirements of Ijebu tradition and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
Meanwhile, the chairman of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, Abdul-Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi, acknowledged receipt of Ayinde’s letter and assured that the selection process remains on track.
“I urge all our family members, home and abroad, to remain calm and confident,” Owoyemi said in a statement on Friday.
“Within two hours of receiving the said letter addressed to me and six others by the Olori Omo Oba Akile Ijebu, I sent him an appropriate response, just as I have quietly done regarding similar declarations of interest in recent weeks.”
He expressed confidence in the ongoing succession deliberations, adding, “In Sha Allah, we shall all have cause to rejoice and thank the Almighty God, who alone makes anyone king. We are very close to a peaceful and joyous conclusion of this sacred and historic process.”
The Awujale seat became vacant following the passing of Oba Sikiru Adetona, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most esteemed traditional rulers.
