Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has issued a stern warning to contestants vying for the throne of the Soun of Ogbomoso, urging them to withdraw all court cases by the week’s end to ensure peace and unity in the region.
The governor made this declaration during the installation ceremony of the 21st Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, at the Ogbomoso Township Stadium.
Expressing concerns over the recent dethronement of the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Akindele, by the Supreme Court after a 22-year reign, Governor Makinde stressed the need for contestants to prioritise the peace and development of Oyo State.
He urged the contestants involved in legal battles to withdraw their cases as a demonstration of love for Ogbomoso land, warning of potential repercussions if they persist. The Governor said that he is commited to utilising all executive powers available to ensure peace and progress in Ogbomoso land.
Governor Makinde urged contestants to cease fighting and embrace unity, emphasising the consequences of prolonged legal battles seen in previous cases within Oyo State. He stressed the importance of fostering a united traditional council for development and progress in the region.
He said, “I have a message for the people who contested this throne with the now coronated Soun of Ogbomoso land. As of last week, some of you are still in court, going about with court orders.
“I am not a lawyer. It is the lawyers who know all about that. What I can say is that the contestation for the throne is behind us and I am looking forward to those in court withdrawing their cases, maybe by the end of this week, as a show of love for Ogbomoso land.
“I need to remind you that in this Oyo State, some people took their monarch to court and after 20 years, the matter went to the Supreme Court, and the Oba was eventually dethroned
“As of today, both the dethroned Oba, those who took him to court, as well as, the community itself, have not seen any benefit from the action. May this not happen in Ogbomoso land.
“So, the people fighting should stop forthwith. But if they refuse to halt their action and withdraw the cases for peace to reign, as the Executive Governor of Oyo State, we are in the fight together, and I will fight to ensure there is peace and progress in Ogbomoso land by ensuring that whatever the government has in power to fight them, I will use to fight those against the installation of this Oba”.
During the event, dignitaries including former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other notable personalities graced the occasion to witness the official installation and presentation of staff of office to the 21st Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye.
Also present were Governors Ademola Adeleke of Osun and Kwara’s Deputy Governor, Mr. Kayode Alabi, among other eminent personalities, highlighting the significance and wide-reaching importance of the event in the region and beyond.
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