By Idris Mustapha,Oshogbo
An Osun State High Court sitting in Ilesa has issued an interim injunction restraining Osun state Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Ilesa kingmakers from proceeding with the process of appointing a new Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.
The order, granted by Justice A. Aderibigbe on December 16, 2024, came after members of the Ofokutu Royal Family of the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House filed a suit (HIL/117/2024) to challenge the process and safeguard their interests in the royal succession.
The suit listed Governor Adeleke, Chief Folorunso Adeniyi (Obanla of Ijesaland), 11 kingmakers, the Ijesa Central Traditional Council, Attorney General Adesuyi Haastrup, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters as respondents.
The applicants prayed the court to halt any steps towards presenting, nominating, or appointing Adesuyi Haastrup or any other individual as the Owa Obokun until the case is fully resolved.
Justice Aderibigbe granted the request, restraining the respondents from further action on the vacant stool pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
The order partly reads, “An order of interim injunction is granted, restraining the 14th, 20th, 21st, and 20th defendants/respondents from taking steps regarding the presentation, nomination, selection, election, or appointment of the 16th defendant/respondent or any person as Owa of Ijesaland or Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.”
The matter was adjourned to January 14, 2025,for hearing.
