…..as Court Hearing Resumes March 6
The Ofokutu Royal Dynasty and the Ijesha People have taken legal action against Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke regarding the installation of Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland. The matter has been adjourned to March 6 for further proceedings.
Prince Adebanji Obembe, Chairman of the Ofokutu royal family, criticized the selection process, citing inherent injustice. He questioned how Justice Aderibigbe of the Osun State High Court could grant an interim order of injunction to the Ofokutu Royal Family on December 12, 2024, only to vacate it the next day [1).
The Ofokutu family alleges that Governor Adeleke ignored a court injunction and proceeded with Haastrup’s installation, politicizing the kingship. They claim the process undermined traditional customs and justice.
Mr. Oladele Bello, spokesperson for Prince Adediran Obembe, emphasized the need to defend Ijesha land’s glory and stop the ruling people’s flagrant actions. He maintained that it’s the Ofokutus’ turn to provide a candidate for the Owa, as the other ruling house had reigned in the past.
Princess Oluwatoyin Faloye, Nee Obembe, expressed dissatisfaction with the state’s request for contestants to pay #10 million for a form. She challenged Haastrup to prove his qualification by undergoing traditional rites.
The Ijesha people demand a capable and agile king who can represent their interests, foster development, and innovate. They aspire to have a king like the Oba of Ife, who is active and travels to benefit his land.
