The Ondo State High Court has ruled in favor of the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Oluwagbemiga Olofin-Adimula, confirming his status as a traditional ruler. The court dismissed a lawsuit from the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who contested this recognition.
The Deji argued that he should have been consulted before the Iralepo was recognized by the state government. However, the court found that the Ondo State Executive Council has the authority to recognize traditional rulers without needing permission from other monarchs.
Justice Sunday Olorundahunsi stated that the Iralepo’s territorial claim over Isinkan, which extends from Imuagun to the Aponmu/Owena rivers, was valid. The court also ordered the Deji and his representatives to stop interfering with the Isinkan traditional institution and its land.
The Deji’s legal team had referenced a previous court ruling, but the Iralepo’s counsel argued that the Deji did not have the power to approve or deny recognition of the Isinkan traditional institution. The court agreed, stating that the Deji’s authority did not extend to this matter.
After the ruling, Oba Olofin-Adimula expressed satisfaction, saying the judgment reinforced the traditional laws governing the Iralepo chieftaincy and the identity of Isinkan. He emphasized the community’s long-standing desire for recognition and the right to manage their ancestral land.
This decision adds another chapter to the ongoing conflict between the Isinkan and Akure communities regarding traditional leadership and land rights.
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