The Awujale is the royal title of the monarch of the Ijebu Kingdom, a historical Yoruba kingdom located in southwestern Nigeria.
The Awujale holds a revered position as the custodian of tradition, culture, and the spiritual well-being of the Ijebu people. Let’s delve into the lineage of Awujales, tracing their reigns from ancient times to the present day.
Historical Background
The Ijebu Kingdom has a rich history dating back centuries. Its capital, Ijebu-Ode, is known for its vibrant culture, commerce, and significant contributions to Yoruba civilization.
The Awujale’s role extends beyond mere governance; they are also the embodiment of the kingdom’s identity and continuity.
Who is the current Awujale of Ijebu?
The current Awujale of Ijebuland is Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II. He has been on the throne since 1960 and continues to play a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage and traditions of the Ijebu people
Below is a table comprising of Awujales and their year of reign.
| Reigning Awujale | Year of Reign |
|---|---|
| Olu-Iwa | 1430 |
| Oshin | |
| Obanta | 1430 |
| Guru | 1445 |
| Munigbuwa | 1455 |
| Obanta II | 1460 |
| Loja | 1470 |
| Lofin | 1482 |
| Apasa | 1496 |
| Ganju | 1508 |
| Tewogboye | 1516 |
| Ruwamuda | 1520 |
| Ofinran | 1532 |
| Lapengbua | 1537 |
| Otutubiosun | 1537 |
| Moko Idowa Ajuwakale | 1540 |
| Adisa | 1552 |
| Jewo | 1561 |
| Elewu Ileke | 1576 |
| Olumisodan Elewu Ileke | 1590 |
| Mase | 1620 |
| Olotuseso | 1625 |
| Mola | 1635 |
| Ajana | 1642 |
| Ore Or Gadegun (First female Awujale) | 1644 |
| Gunwaja | 1655 |
| Jadiara or Olowojoyemeji | 1660 |
| Sapokun | 1675 |
| Falokun | 1687 |
| Mekun | 1692 |
| Gbodogi | 1702 |
| Ojigi Amoyegeso | 1710 |
| Liyewe Arojofaye | 1730 |
| Moyege Olope | 1730 |
| Ojora | 1735 |
| Fesojaye | 1745 |
| Ore Jeje (Female) | 1749 |
| Sappennuwa Rubakoye (Female) | 1750 |
| Orodudu Joye | 1755 |
| Tewogbuwa I | 1758 |
| Gbelegbuwa I | 1760 |
| Fusengbuwa | 1790 |
| Setejoye | 1820 |
| Anikilaya Figbajoye Agboogunsa | 1821 |
| Afidipotemole Ademuyewo | 1850 |
| Atunwase Adesinbo | 1886 |
| Ogbagba Agbotewole I | 1895 |
| Fusigboye Adeona | 1906 |
| Fesogbade Ademolu (Dethroned) | 1916 |
| Adekoya Eleruja | 1916 |
| Ademolu Fesogbade (Enthroned again) | 1917 |
| Adenuga Afolagbade | 1925 |
| Ogunnaike Fibiwoga | 1929 |
| Daniel Adesanya Gbelegbuwa II | 1933-1959 |
| Dr. Sikiru Oluwakayode Adetona, Ogbagba Agbotewole II | 1960–present |
