Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, one of the contestants for the prestigious Alaafin of Oyo stool, has initiated legal proceedings to contest Governor Seyi Makinde’s appointment and presentation of the staff of office to Prince Akeem Owoade.
In a pre-action notice issued by his counsel, Kunle Sobaloju SAN, Gbadegesin argued that the governor’s actions violated provisions of the Oyo State Chiefs’ Law 2000.
The legal dispute stems from a split decision among the Oyomesi, Oyo’s traditional kingmakers, with five out of seven members recommending Prince Lukman Gbadegesin for the position. Despite this, Governor Makinde on January 10 approved Owoade as the Alaafin and presented him with the instruments of office.
Prince Lukman Gbadegesin’s counsel claims that the governor’s actions undermine the authority of the Oyomesi, who are exclusively empowered by the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961 to select the Alaafin.
Furthermore, the legal team highlighted that the governor’s reliance on Ifa consultations during the selection process contradicts a December 2022 ruling by the Oyo State High Court, which deemed such practices unlawful.
“The governor’s decision not only disregards established traditional protocols but also breaches multiple legal provisions, making the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade unlawful and invalid,” the letter stated.
During the presentation ceremony, Governor Makinde maintained that his decision was aimed at preserving the integrity of the Alaafin stool and preventing its politicization. He further hinted at prosecuting individuals accused of bribery in the selection process.
Gbadegesin, however, has called on the court to:
- Nullify the appointment and staff presentation of Owoade.
- Declare him as the rightful Alaafin based on the legitimate selection process by the Oyomesi.
- Restrain Owoade from acting as Alaafin or performing any associated duties.
This legal battle adds another layer of complexity to the succession crisis surrounding one of Yoruba land’s most revered traditional institutions.