Ghandi: The Debate, The Wait, and the Victory – How Soun of Ogbomoso Won at the Appeal Court
The Court of Appeal in Ibadan, Oyo State, has upheld the selection and installation of Oba Ghandi Olaoye as the Soun of Ogbomoso, overturning a previous High Court ruling that nullified his appointment.
The appellate court’s decision, delivered by Justice Yargata Nimpar, resolved all ten grounds of appeal in favour of Oba Olaoye, thereby restoring his legitimacy as the traditional ruler of Ogbomoso.
Background of the Dispute
The contention over the Soun of Ogbomoso’s throne began when Prince Kabir Olaoye, a rival claimant, filed a lawsuit challenging the selection process that led to Oba Ghandi Olaoye’s appointment.
He argued that the process violated the 1958 Soun Chieftaincy Declaration. On October 25, 2023, the Oyo State High Court in Ogbomoso, presided over by Justice K.A. Adedokun, ruled in favor of Prince Kabir Olaoye, declaring the selection “irregular, null, and void.”
Appeal and Reversal
In response to the High Court’s decision, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, along with key kingmakers—Chief S.O. Otolorin, Salawu Ajadi, Tijani Abioye, David Adeniran Ojo, and Yusuf Kasali Oladipupo—filed an appeal challenging the verdict.
They also secured a stay of execution, allowing Governor Seyi Makinde to formally inaugurate Oba Olaoye as the Soun on December 20, 2023. The appellants, represented by Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), contended that the High Court lacked jurisdiction over the case, citing Section 20 of the Oyo State Chiefs Law, which mandates that chieftaincy disputes be referred to the state governor before proceeding to court.
Justice Nimpar concurred with the appellants, stating that the lower court erred in its judgment and that the appellants were denied a fair hearing. Consequently, the appellate court set aside the High Court’s ruling, resolving all issues in favor of Oba Olaoye.
Implications for Ogbomoso
This ruling brings stability to the traditional leadership of Ogbomoso, affirming Oba Ghandi Olaoye’s position as the legitimate Soun.
The legal dispute had created uncertainty within the community, but with the appellate court’s decision, Oba Olaoye can now focus on his responsibilities as the town’s traditional leader, promoting unity and development.
The judgment also underscores the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks in chieftaincy matters, emphasizing the necessity of following due process in the selection and installation of traditional rulers.
As Oba Ghandi Olaoye embarks on his reign, the people of Ogbomoso look forward to a period of progress and cohesion under his leadership.
Read Also: Governor Makinde Plans to Fight Whoever Contest Against Ghandi’s Installation
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