Prince Lukman Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit to challenge the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo, citing violations of the Oyo State Chiefs’ Law and the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration. He seeks to annul Owoade’s appointment and assert his rightful selection.
Prince Lukman Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit to challenge the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade as the Alaafin of Oyo. Gbadegesin, who was supported by the majority of the Oyo Kingmakers, argues that the appointment, approval, and presentation of the staff of office to Owoade violate the Oyo State Chiefs’ Law of 2000 and the Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961. In a pre-action notice, Gbadegesin’s legal team, led by Adekunle Sobaloju SAN, claims that Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision undermines the authority of the Oyomesi, the appointed kingmakers, who are responsible for selecting the Alaafin.
Further complicating the matter, Gbadegesin criticized the Governor’s alleged reliance on Ifa consultation during the selection process, citing a 2022 ruling by the Oyo State High Court that declared such consultations unlawful. Gbadegesin also disputed bribery allegations involving two Oyomesi members, which were raised long after the selection and not properly investigated.
The lawsuit seeks to annul Owoade’s appointment, deeming it unconstitutional, and to officially recognize Gbadegesin as the legitimate Alaafin, asserting that his selection followed the proper legal procedures. This case could set a precedent regarding the balance of power between traditional leadership and government authority in Oyo State.
