The High Court sitting in Ilesa, Osun State, has granted an injunction restraining the state government from taking further steps to fill the vacant stool of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.
The case was brought forward by the Contestants, Head, and Principal Members of the Ofokutu Royal Family of the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House.
Justice A.A. Aderibigbe, who presided over the case, issued a restraining order against the Ilesa West Local Government, the Governor of Osun State, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
The injunction prevents them from taking any further steps regarding the presentation, nomination, selection, election, installation, or appointment of Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, or any other individual, as the Owa of Ijesaland or Owa Obokun Adimula.
The judge directed that no actions should be taken by the defendants concerning the matter pending the determination and hearing of the application.
The claimants argue that members of the Haastrup Royal Family do not have the right to contest the vacant stool, as they have already produced two Owas in 1896 and 1942.
The claimants assert that it is the turn of the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House to present a candidate for the stool.
Additionally, the claimants sought to prevent the imposition of a ten million Naira fee for the application form required for Owa contestants.
The case has been adjourned to 14th January 2025 for further hearing.
