Renowned Fuji music icon, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, has formally declared his interest in vying for the prestigious Awujale throne of Ijebuland, sparking widespread discussion across social and traditional media platforms.
According to reports, the veteran musician made his intention official on December 3, 2025, through a formal letter addressed to the appropriate traditional authorities.
In the letter, KWAM 1 expressed his desire to be considered for the revered Awujale stool, confidently identifying himself as a “bonafide son” of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, one of the recognized royal lineages eligible for the throne.
Shortly after the letter surfaced online, it generated intense reactions, with many Nigerians debating the growing intersection between celebrity influence and traditional leadership structures in Yorubaland, particularly in Ijebuland.
Ruling House Demands Proof of Royal Lineage
Reacting to the development, leaders of the Fusengbuwa ruling house clarified that showing interest alone does not automatically qualify an aspirant for the Awujale position.
The chairman of the ruling house, Abdulateef Owoyemi, explained that all interested candidates must strictly adhere to established traditional procedures before their names can be considered.
He revealed that every aspirant is required to complete a comprehensive lineage declaration form that traces their ancestral roots back at least seven generations.
Owoyemi noted that this requirement is a long-standing tradition designed to protect the sanctity of the throne and prevent unqualified individuals from laying claim to it.
“The first step is to declare your lineage. Your parents, grandparents, and those before them must be traced meticulously. Only genuine members of the Fusengbuwa ruling house will be permitted to proceed,” he said.
KWAM 1 Receives Special Extension
While the original deadline for submitting applications reportedly ended on December 5, KWAM 1 has been granted a special five-day extension to complete and submit his lineage documentation.
This extension, according to the ruling house, will expire on December 10, giving the Fuji legend additional time to provide the necessary ancestral evidence.
Owoyemi explained that although the ruling house appreciates influential and accomplished sons of Ijebuland who could potentially strengthen the throne, adherence to tradition and authenticity remains non-negotiable.
He added that all aspirants, regardless of fame or status, would be subjected to the same verification standards.
Timeline for Selection Process
The process of selecting the next Awujale of Ijebuland is already operating within a strict timeline, as outlined by traditional authorities.
The Fusengbuwa ruling house has a 14-day window, ending on December 18, to screen aspirants and forward the names of qualified candidates to the kingmakers.
After receiving the list, the kingmakers will have seven days to deliberate and select a preferred candidate.
The chosen name will then be forwarded to the Ogun State governor for official approval.
This stage will be followed by a mandatory 21-day government review period, which includes background verification, security checks, and consideration of any objections raised by concerned parties.
Why Lineage Verification Matters
Members of the Fusengbuwa ruling house emphasized that thorough lineage verification is a cornerstone of traditional leadership in Ijebuland.
They stressed that the process is essential to preserving the integrity, history, and cultural heritage associated with the Awujale stool.
As such, KWAM 1’s claims of royal lineage will undergo the same level of scrutiny applied to all other aspirants, ensuring fairness and transparency.
“This exercise is about safeguarding tradition and ensuring that only rightful descendants of Fusengbuwa ascend the throne,” Owoyemi reiterated.
As the process unfolds, many observers continue to watch closely, eager to see whether the iconic Fuji star will successfully navigate the rigorous traditional requirements and remain in the race for one of Yorubaland’s most revered stools.