An Akure High Court has dismissed a suit filed by the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, challenging the recognition of Oba Oluwagbemiga Olofin-Adimula as the Iralepo of Isinkan.
The judgment affirms the autonomy of the Isinkan traditional institution and the authority of the Ondo State Executive Council in chieftaincy matters.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Sunday Olorundahunsi held that the State Executive Council has the statutory power to upgrade and recognise traditional chieftaincies.
The court upheld the Ondo State Government’s position that its statutory powers to recognise and promote traditional rulers could not be transferred to another monarch without express legal provision.
Consequently, the court restrained the Deji of Akure, his agents, chiefs and anyone acting on his behalf from interfering in the affairs of the Iralepo or dealing with the disputed land in Isinkan.
Reacting to the judgment, Oba Olofin-Adimula described the ruling as a courageous affirmation of Isinkan’s customary law and territorial identity.
He said the community had long sought recognition of its ancient crown and ancestral land.
