A recent court judgment in Osun State, Nigeria, has thrown the Ola throne into disarray. The Olugbode family, a branch of the Ejitunde Ruling House, is contesting the legitimacy of the current king, Oba Johnson Ajiboye. This legal challenge reignites a long-standing dispute over the rightful heir to the throne.
Family Alleges Exclusion from Selection Process
The Olugbode family contends they were unfairly excluded from the selection process that culminated in Oba Ajiboye’s ascension to the throne. They cite a lawsuit filed in 2020 (HEJ/3/2020) with the State High Court. In that case, Justice Lawrence Arojo ultimately ruled in their favor.
Justice Arojo’s verdict recognized the Olugbode family’s rightful place within the Ejitunde Ruling House. Significantly, the judge called for internal dialogue within the ruling house to address any lingering disagreements and work towards a solution.
Oba Ajiboye, however, seems unfazed by the court’s decision. He stated that the ruling house has the freedom to interpret the judgment “the way they like.” This stance contrasts with the Olugbode family’s perspective. Kola Sangoniran, representing the family, cautioned against misinterpreting the verdict. He emphasized that the court did not validate Oba Ajiboye’s position and urged him to step down.
Sangoraniran expressed deep concern that any defiance of the court order could spark unrest within the Ola community. He reiterated the family’s desire for a peaceful resolution but stressed their exclusion from the selection process as a crucial issue that needs to be addressed.
Potential for Reconciliation or Escalation
The future of the Ola throne remains uncertain. Oba Ajiboye’s defiance and the Olugbode family’s insistence on their rightful claim raises the possibility of a protracted legal battle. This could have significant consequences for the Ola community, potentially leading to social unrest and a breakdown of traditional governance structures.
The onus now falls on the Ejitunde Ruling House to heed Justice Arojo’s call for dialogue. Open and honest communication between the Olugbode family and Oba Ajiboye’s lineage is essential to resolve this dispute peacefully and ensure a smooth transition for the Ola throne.
Source: Punch
