Ijebu Traditional Leadership Dispute Raises Questions Over Olisa’s Entitlements

The Ogun State Government has been urged to intervene in a dispute over the reported withholding of the Olisa of Ijebu-Ode’s salary.

Objectv Media says it obtained copies of letters exchanged between the Oguja Olu-Isa—also known as the Olisa of Ijebu-Ode—and the Awujale of Ijebuland. The correspondence reportedly concerns the stoppage of the Olisa’s entitlements.

According to the report, the Olisa’s salary has not been paid since August 2019. When he sought clarification from the state government, he was reportedly referred to the Ijebu Traditional Council (ITC).

The government was said to have confirmed that it had sent funds covering the entitlements of traditional chiefs. It reportedly advised that the Olisa’s case be addressed by the ITC, where his payments were allegedly being withheld.

The dispute was reportedly traced to the Awujale, who is said to have challenged the recognition of the Olisa’s stool. According to the account, the Awujale’s position was that the Olisa should no longer be regarded as a king and that his stipends should therefore be withheld through the ITC.

Objectv Media reports that the Olisa has written to the Awujale on several occasions, citing the history of the stool and seeking recognition. However, the Awujale is alleged to have maintained that the Olisa should not be addressed as a king.

The matter raises questions about the recognition and status of traditional stools, as well as the administration of entitlements due to traditional officeholders. It also highlights the role of the Ijebu Traditional Council in resolving disputes involving traditional institutions.

The report calls on Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR, to intervene and ensure the matter is reviewed. It does not include responses from the Awujale or the Ijebu Traditional Council, so the claims presented remain allegations pending comment or independent verification.

A prompt resolution, the report argues, would clarify the Olisa’s status and determine whether any salary or other entitlements remain outstanding. Until the relevant parties provide further information, the precise circumstances behind the stoppage and the basis for the competing positions remain unclear.