Prince Gbadegesin Sues Oyo Government, Challenges Prince Owoade’s Appointment as Alaafin, Seeks Court Injunction to Halt Coronation
Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, a contender for the Alaafin of Oyo throne, has filed a lawsuit at the Oyo State High Court, challenging the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin.
Filed on February 12, the suit seeks to overturn Owoade’s selection, arguing it violates the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961. Gbadegesin is also requesting an injunction to stop Owoade from assuming royal duties.
The lawsuit names Governor Seyi Makinde, the Attorney General of Oyo State, and 11 others as defendants, demanding they appear in court within 30 days. Gbadegesin’s legal counsel, Kunle Sobaloju (SAN), asserts that the governor’s approval of Owoade’s appointment within five days was “unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid.”
Gbadegesin contends that the Oyomesi (kingmakers) had already selected him as the rightful candidate and is urging the court to declare his nomination valid. He argues that key kingmakers were excluded from the selection process and that Governor Makinde’s decision violated due process.
The claimant seeks a court order compelling the governor to recognize him as the rightful Alaafin, blocking Owoade’s coronation, and preventing any financial entitlements from being paid to him. He also demands that the court nullify Owoade’s selection and appointment.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has proceeded with preparations for Owoade’s coronation, forming a committee that held its inaugural meeting last week.
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