In a significant legal development, the Abeokuta High Court has nullified the installation of Oba Alexander MacGregor as the Olu of Orile Ilawo, restraining him from parading himself as the traditional ruler pending the resolution of ongoing legal disputes. Presiding over the case, Justice Olatokunbo Majekodunmi ruled in favor of the Ogunsanya-Ariku Royal Family, who had challenged the legitimacy of MacGregor’s ascension to the throne.
The court’s decision was influenced by the Ogun State government’s decision to proceed with MacGregor’s installation despite existing legal challenges. Justice Majekodunmi criticized this move as an act of impunity and a blatant disregard for the rule of law, emphasizing that all parties must refrain from actions that could undermine judicial integrity during active litigation.
The Ogunsanya-Ariku family initiated legal action following allegations that approved warrant chiefs were replaced with unauthorized individuals during the nomination and selection process for the Olu of Orile Ilawo stool, subsequent to the former monarch’s passing on December 24, 2021. They sought judicial intervention to halt the installation process and challenge MacGregor’s claim to the throne.
In response to the court’s ruling, Dr. David Ogunsanya, Secretary to the Ariku and Ogunsanya dynasty, lauded the judiciary for upholding justice. He expressed the family’s satisfaction with the nullification of MacGregor’s installation, highlighting their commitment to legal avenues over violence to resolve the dispute.
Following the court’s decision, Oba Alexander MacGregor filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, challenging the interlocutory injunction. In his appeal, MacGregor contended that the lower court lacked jurisdiction and that the respondents failed to establish their interest in the Olu of Orile Ilawo stool. He is seeking to overturn the ruling and reaffirm his position as the legitimate traditional ruler.
The Ilawo Traditional Council has also defended MacGregor’s selection, asserting that he was rightfully chosen and was the Oba-elect at the time the lawsuit was filed. They emphasized their commitment to due process and expressed confidence in the legal system to resolve the matter justly.
This chieftaincy dispute has garnered significant attention, with various stakeholders calling for peaceful resolution and adherence to legal protocols. The outcome of the appeal and subsequent legal proceedings will be pivotal in determining the future leadership of the Orile Ilawo community.
In a related development, Oba MacGregor recently announced the removal of 10 chiefs, including the Oluwo of Ilawo, Chief Oluwole Dosunmu, and the Balogun of Ilawo, Chief Abraham Soyoye, citing their alleged involvement in illegal land sales and insubordination. The affected chiefs have refuted these allegations, asserting that MacGregor lacks the authority to depose them, as they were installed by the Osile of Oke Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso, whom they recognize as the prescribed authority over Ilawo Kingdom.
The deposed chiefs have called on Governor Dapo Abiodun and prominent Egba monarchs to intervene, warning that the dispute could escalate into a larger crisis if not addressed promptly. They have also reported the matter to law enforcement agencies, seeking protection and resolution through appropriate channels.
As the legal and traditional tussles continue, the Orile Ilawo community remains in a state of uncertainty, with many residents and stakeholders keenly observing the developments and hoping for a resolution that upholds justice, tradition, and communal harmony.
