Why I Want To Be Next Awujale — Ex-Ombudsman Ayo-Yusuf

Former Chief Commissioner and Ombudsman of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), Prince Abimbola Ayo-Yusuf, has declared his intention to ascend the vacant Awujale stool of Ijebuland in Ogun State, describing his aspiration as a “call to service” rather than a contest of entitlement.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos at the weekend, Prince Ayo-Yusuf said his interest in the revered traditional seat was inspired by his lifelong commitment to service, discipline, and community development.

“Rulership is not a contest of noise or entitlement; it is a call to service,” he said. “Any edge I may have lies not in superiority over others but in preparation—years of leadership, tested integrity, emotional maturity, and demonstrated commitment to people.”

The former Ombudsman, who hails from the Tunwase Royal lineage of the Fusenguwa Ruling House, described himself as a “servant-leader” shaped by public service and guided by humility.

“My ancestry is well established through my forefathers, whose lives were marked by honour, service, and loyalty to the Ijebu people,” he explained. “This heritage is not merely a claim of bloodline but a responsibility, one that instils reverence for tradition, respect for institutions, and an obligation to uphold the dignity of the Awujale stool.”

Ayo-Yusuf, who previously served as PCC Commissioner representing Lagos State before becoming Nigeria’s Chief Ombudsman in July 2021, emphasised that leadership must be grounded in stewardship and impact rather than titles.

“Beyond titles and offices, I am a son of Ijebuland who understands leadership as stewardship, rooted in values, guided by humility, and measured by impact on people’s lives,” he added.

On the large number of contenders estimated at nearly 100 princes vying for the Awujale stool, he said the development should be seen as a reflection of Ijebuland’s rich royal heritage rather than rivalry.

“It shows that the stool of the Awujale remains highly revered, respected, and relevant,” he noted. “Many princes coming forward are not a weakness; they are evidence of a living tradition. Ultimately, tradition, wisdom, and divine guidance, not numbers, will determine who best embodies the values and responsibility required at this moment in Ijebu history.”

Prince Ayo-Yusuf also spoke on the role of traditional rulers in modern governance, stressing that monarchy remains a stabilising force in Nigeria’s democracy.

“Traditional rulers remain the moral compass, cultural custodians, and stabilising force within a democracy,” he said. “The Awujale, in particular, symbolizes unity above politics, bridging generations, calming tensions, and preserving identity. When democracy and tradition coexist respectfully, society becomes more balanced, peaceful, and resilient.”

Prince Abimbola Ayo-Yusuf’s career has spanned both administrative and community service, with a record of addressing injustices, improving public service delivery, and mediating between citizens and government agencies.