Fuji music legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has responded to critics questioning his decision to contest for the vacant stool of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.
This comes a week after the 68-year-old singer formally declared his interest in succeeding the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away in July 2025 after a historic 64-year reign.
Before K1 signalled his intention, the race for the prestigious throne had already attracted notable contenders, including 45-year-old Prince Olaseni Ottun of the Adeberu lineage and renowned engineer and entrepreneur, Otunba Babatunde Alatise.
In a letter dated December 3 and addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, K1 stated that he is a legitimate son of the royal family and therefore qualified to vie for the throne.
“I, Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Adewale Olasunkanmi Omogbolahan Anifowoshe, MON, hereby formally notify the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of my intention to be considered for the vacant stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland,” the statement read in part.
He explained that he traces his lineage to the Oba Jadiara line of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, adding that his birth and ancestry qualify him under both Ijebu customary law and Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws.
Born on March 3, 1957, K1 emphasised his lifelong commitment to promoting Ijebu, Yoruba, and Nigerian heritage through his five-decade musical career.
Amid criticism and debate surrounding his ambition, the Fuji icon addressed the issue in a now-viral video posted on his YouTube channel.
He insisted that his royal background is not in doubt and warned detractors against attempting to undermine his legitimate claim.
“Those who gave birth to me know me, and I also know them. There’s no side for petty talks. I’m from a royal lineage,” he said.
“I’m from the Fidipote ruling house, I’m also from the Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode. So whoever wants to question me, we’ll meet at the field. If it is because of my declaration for the throne, it is my right. You can’t silence me.”
