The Osun State High Court in Ilesa has issued an interim injunction restraining Governor Ademola Adeleke and other state officials from appointing Prince Clement Adesuyi or any other member of the Haastrup family as the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesa land. This decision follows a motion brought by Prince Debo Adeyemi, Prince Adeboye Adewale, and nine others from the Ofokutu Royal Family.
The Owa-Obokun stool became vacant after the passing of Oba Gabriel Aromolaran on September 11, 2024, who reigned for 42 years. Various ruling families have since shown interest in the throne, with kingmakers preparing to screen potential candidates. However, the court intervened following concerns raised by members of the Ofokutu Royal Family regarding the nomination process and the N10 million nomination fee for contestants.
Justice Adeyinka Aderibigbe granted the interim injunction, restraining the 14th respondent (Ilesa West Local Government), 20th respondent (Governor Ademola Adeleke), 21st respondent (Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs), and 22nd respondent (Attorney General of Osun State) from taking steps towards the nomination, selection, or appointment of a new Owa-Obokun.
The matter has been adjourned until January 14, 2025, for the hearing of the pending application before the court.
