Oyo Prince Challenges Appointment of New Alaafin, Seeks Court Intervention

 In Oyo State, Prince Lukman Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit at the Oyo State High Court challenging the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. 

The suit, filed on February 12, 2025, contends that Owoade’s selection contravenes the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, and the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.

Prince Gbadegesin’s legal action seeks a court order to nullify Owoade’s appointment and prevent him from performing any royal duties. The suit names Governor Seyi Makinde, the Attorney General of Oyo State, and 11 others as defendants, alleging that due process was not followed in the selection of the new monarch.

According to the filed documents, Gbadegesin asserts that the Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers, had initially selected him as the rightful candidate for the throne. He argues that Governor Makinde’s swift approval of Owoade’s appointment, within five days of its presentation, was unlawful and bypassed established traditional procedures.

The court has scheduled a hearing for March 11, 2025, to deliberate on the matter. This legal dispute adds to the ongoing tension surrounding the Alaafin succession, as various royal families and stakeholders express differing views on the rightful heir to the esteemed throne.