A lawyer and the only female contender in the succession process for the revered Awujale of Ijebuland stool, Dr Oluwakemi Onanuga, has emerged as one of the leading contestants from the Fusengbuwa Ruling House and is seeking to succeed the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.
Dr Onanuga, a partner at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), recently submitted her aspirant’s application to the Olori-Ebi, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (FCA), in Ijebu-Ode. Her name is among those forwarded to the kingmakers, making her candidacy one of the most anticipated since the stool became vacant.
Her ambition follows historical precedence, as records show that at least three women have previously occupied the Awujale stool, beginning with Oba Gadegun, who ascended the throne in 1644.
In her letter of intent, the globally trained lawyer and technologist—who is a direct descendant of the 47th Awujale, His Royal Majesty Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I (Aboki)—said her aspiration is deeply rooted in heritage, duty, and a renewed call to service.
“I seek to build upon the firm foundations laid by my forefathers,” she wrote.
She also paid glowing tribute to the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, describing his reign as long, distinguished, and worthy of deep respect and admiration.
Dr Onanuga said her leadership philosophy is anchored in the legacy of Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I, whom she described as a ruler of exceptional foresight.
“My vision is deeply rooted in the legacy of my forefather, Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I, who championed an era of unprecedented religious tolerance and openness, ensuring that Ijebuland became a beacon of diversity, acceptance, and formidable trade,” she said.
She recalled that Ijebuland experienced its most prosperous period of commerce under Tunwase I, who opened the kingdom to global trade through engagement with the British monarchy.
“This is the heritage I humbly declare that I embody,” she added.
According to Dr Onanuga, her aspiration is guided by five core pillars: unity, cultural pride, education, economic empowerment, and the welfare of elders.
“It is this spirit of enlightened leadership—one that embraces progress while holding fast to our identity—that I seek to reignite,” she said.
She emphasised that her ambition is driven by duty rather than personal interest.
“I present myself not out of ambition alone, but out of a sober duty to serve. I am fortified by the knowledge that the true strength of a ruler is measured by service to the people,” she stated.
Outlining her priorities if selected by the Afobajes, Dr Onanuga said she would focus on strengthening traditional institutions and their legal standing, advancing the legacy of Ijebu kingship, reviving commerce through modern infrastructure and economic reforms, promoting unity in diversity, expanding educational opportunities to make citizens job-ready, and ensuring the welfare of elders as custodians of Ijebu history.
In an interview, she noted that her royal heritage places a responsibility on her that she cannot ignore.
“When you are born a royal, it becomes about duty and nothing else. Imagine if Prince Charles or Prince William refused to ascend the throne,” she said.
She also outlined a strategic development plan aimed at attracting both foreign and local investment into infrastructure, mega real estate projects, agricultural modernisation, and renewable energy in Ijebuland.
“We must determine what ‘hub city’ Ijebu must become,” she said, adding that such investments would create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve livelihoods.
Describing herself as a global citizen, Dr Onanuga said her international exposure positions her to reposition Ijebuland on the global stage.
“I am Nigerian by heritage, British by birth, and American by training and choice. This gives me a unique advantage to provide solutions for Ijebuland through my network and skill set,” she said.
Addressing concerns about gender, she said being a woman is her greatest advantage.
“I am the only female among the aspirants, and I believe my gender gives me a unique leadership edge,” she added.
Born on March 31, 1962, Dr Onanuga’s life reflects a lineage of service strengthened by global exposure and professional excellence. She attended Ladi-Lak Institute and Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, Lagos.
She is a US- and UK-trained lawyer, an IT and systems professional with nearly 30 years of experience, and a global advocate who has worked with governments, private institutions, and multilateral organisations across continents.
As a partner at Olisa Agbakoba Legal, her work spans law, project finance, and policy development.
Commenting on her candidacy, Principal Partner at OAL, Dr Olisa Agbakoba, described her as possessing “the rare substance required for sovereignty,” citing her intellect, resilience, and ability to balance tradition with modern governance.
Dr Onanuga has contested as a UK councillor and served on Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Committees, where she played a role in the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
She has also worked with Deloitte Haskins & Sells, contributed to Tony Blair’s New Deal Project in the UK, and participated in Barack Obama’s mortgage relief campaign in the United States.
She holds the distinction of being named a United Nations lifetime Goodwill Ambassador for her role in shaping reforms to the U.S.–Africa Trade Law (AGOA) and her community empowerment initiatives.
As the process for selecting the next Awujale progresses, Dr Onanuga’s career and heritage continue to underscore her readiness to make history.
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