Orile-Ilawo Stool: Ogun monarch rejects court ruling, heads to Appeal court

The Olu of Orile-Ilawo Kingdom, Oba Alexander MacGregor, has filed an appeal against an interlocutory injunction issued by the Ogun State High Court, which nullified his installation as the traditional ruler of Orile-Ilawo.

The appeal, filed on Tuesday at the Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, is registered under Appeal Suit No: AB/789/22. Oba MacGregor is listed as the appellant, while Chief Mrs. Teleola Ariku, the Ogun State Governor, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Alake of Egbaland Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Osile of Oke-Ona Egba Oba Adewale Tejuoso, and seven others are respondents.

The Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta had, on Tuesday, declared Oba MacGregor’s installation illegal and ordered him to cease parading himself as the Olu of Orile-Ilawo pending the determination of a suit filed by the Ogunsanya-Ariku royal family challenging the selection process.

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Justice Olatokunbo Majekodunmi ruled that the appointment process violated established procedures.

In the appeal notice obtained by Validview Network, MacGregor argued that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter.

He contended, “Before a court may assume jurisdiction on any matter, the claimant must have the requisite capacity to institute the suit. The respondents failed to plead their interest in the Olu of Orile-Ilawo stool or identify their ruling house.”

He maintained that the judgment was against the weight of evidence and urged the appellate court to set it aside.

In a statement signed by Barr. Babatunde Doherty on behalf of the council, the Ilawo Traditional Council defended MacGregor’s selection as legitimate.

The statement read: “We acknowledge the court’s directives, which merely revert the parties to the status quo pending the determination of the suit. At the time the suit was filed, His Majesty was already the Oba-elect, underscoring the validity of the selection process.”

The council emphasized that the appeal must be resolved before the High Court ruling can take effect.

“We are confident that justice will prevail through lawful processes,” the statement added.

The council extended appreciation to the community and supporters for their steadfast backing during the ongoing legal battle.

They reassured the public of their commitment to upholding the traditions and integrity of the Ilawo Kingdom while seeking justice through lawful means.

Validview Network reports