The battle for the revered throne of the Alaafin of Oyo has taken a dramatic turn as Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, a contender for the stool, has dragged the newly appointed Alaafin, Prince Akeem Owoade, to court.
Sahara Reporters announced via its official X handle that Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit at the Oyo State High Court, challenging Owoade’s appointment and seeking to have it nullified. The lawsuit, filed on February 12, 2025, argues that Owoade’s selection violates both the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.
Through his legal counsel, Kunle Sobaloju (SAN), Gbadegesin is not only contesting the appointment but also requesting an injunction to restrain Owoade from assuming royal duties or receiving any form of recognition as Alaafin.
The lawsuit has Governor Seyi Makinde, the Attorney General of Oyo State, and 11 others as defendants, demanding that they respond to the legal challenge within 30 days.
Gbadegesin contends that the governor’s approval of Owoade’s appointment within just five days was “unlawful, unconstitutional, invalid, null, and void.” He insists that he was rightfully selected by the Oyomesi (kingmakers) as the legitimate heir and that the decision to install Owoade was made without proper consultation with all kingmakers.
According to the lawsuit, the selection of Prince Owoade was carried out “to the exclusion of rightful kingmakers who were neither suspended nor removed.” Gbadegesin is urging the court to invalidate Owoade’s appointment and affirm his own nomination as the legitimate heir.
Gbadegesin further seeks a court order compelling the governor to approve his appointment, as recommended by the Agunloye Ruling House and the Oyomesi.
Additionally, he demands an injunction barring any financial entitlements to Owoade, including allowances or official privileges as the Alaafin of Oyo.
Tensions Rise as Government Pushes Forward with Coronation Plans
Despite the legal battle, the Oyo State Government is forging ahead with coronation preparations for Prince Owoade. A coronation committee has already begun meetings, signaling the state’s resolve to proceed with the installation.
Sahara Reporters had earlier reported that Governor Makinde officially appointed Prince Owoade as Alaafin on January 13, 2024, marking the end of a two-year vacancy since the passing of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in 2022.
During the coronation ceremony, Governor Makinde warned against corruption, stating that any individuals found guilty of accepting bribes during the selection process would be prosecuted and held accountable.
In a related development, the Oyomesi—the traditional kingmakers of Oyo—have expressed their dissatisfaction with how the selection process was conducted.
They conveyed their grievances in a letter dated January 14, 2025, addressed to the governor and signed by their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju (SAN), from the law firm Kunle Sobaloju & Co.
The letter, titled “Curbing Public Statements Maligning the Integrity of the Oyomesi,” underscores their discontent with public narratives surrounding the selection process, indicating that tensions remain high within the Oyo traditional council.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are on the Oyo State High Court to determine whether Gbadegesin’s claims hold weight or if Owoade’s appointment will stand. The outcome could redefine the traditional leadership structure of the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
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