Late Chief Adeola Odutola’s Big Shoes … Dr Sonny Kuku Set to Become Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland 

Records are made to be broken. This has become the shared thought among commentators regarding the highly coveted chieftaincy position in Ijebu, the Ogbeni Oja. The reportedly appointed person for this position is Olor’ogun (Dr.) Sonny Kuku, and will be stepping into the shoes left behind by two legends, the late Chief Timothy Odutola and Chief Bayo Kuku.

The Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland position is one of renown. It is the traditional seat for the leader of Commerce and Industry in Ijebu, a kingmaker’s seat. Since 2015, the seat has been vacant, causing many distinguished individuals to set their eyes on it. However, sources close to the Ijebu Council of Chiefs have revealed that Dr. Kuku has been designated as the best candidate for the position.

According to these sources, the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Adetona approved the selection of Olor’ogun Kuku over the other listed candidates, including the founder and CEO of Fototek, Chief Sulaiman Adegunwa, and the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Ayoola Otudeko. The selection of Olor’ogun Kuku over the others was reportedly based on merits, experience, and wisdom. In these areas, Kuku is virtually unmatched.

Kuku’s new position is a big deal to all the natives of Ijebuland. It essentially turns him into a person who can call winds and rains, able to speak into the ears of the king, and gently influence his decisions.

Moreover, Kuku is going to be 80 years old by January 2024. This means that the Ogbeni Oja mantle is coming at just the right time. Even though the date for Kuku’s installation has not been announced, observers are almost certain that it will not take long.

With Kuku’s ascension to the Ogbeni Oja position, it is a new era of progressive commerce and industry for the Ijebu people.