The Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta on Tuesday declared the installation of Alexander Macgregor as the Olu of Ilawo illegal, reversing the process.
Justice Olatokunbo Majekodunmi ruled that Macgregor must cease presenting himself as the Olu of Orile Ilawo, Abeokuta, until the resolution of a suit challenging the legitimacy of his nomination.
The ruling came in response to a suit filed by the Ogunsanya-Ariku Royal Family of Ilawo, which sought to halt the installation and invalidate Macgregor’s claim to the throne.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Majekodunmi condemned the government for proceeding with Macgregor’s installation despite ongoing court proceedings, describing the action as impunity and a disregard for judicial authority.
She stated, “Once a case is before the court, all parties are legally obligated to refrain from actions that could undermine the court’s integrity. The government’s conduct in this matter shows blatant disregard for the rule of law.”
The court granted an order of mandatory injunction restraining Macgregor from parading himself as the Olu of Ilawo.
Additionally, it restored the stool of the Olu of Orile Ilawo to its status prior to the disputed nomination process.
Justice Majekodunmi also directed the withdrawal of all instruments of office, staff, and symbols of authority granted to Macgregor by the government.
“The court hereby orders the withdrawal of the staff of office and other symbols of authority from Macgregor. The 7th defendant must refrain from parading himself as Olu of Ilawo pending the determination of the suit,” the judge ruled.
The Ogunsanya-Ariku Royal Family initiated legal action after alleging that warrant chiefs approved by the Ilawo traditional council were replaced with unfamiliar names to manipulate the nomination and selection process for the Olu of Orile Ilawo throne. The former king passed away on December 24, 2021.
The family also sought to halt the installation process, challenging the legitimacy of Macgregor’s claim to the throne.
Reacting to the court’s ruling, Dr. David Ogunsanya, secretary to the Aiku and Ogunsanya dynasties, praised the judiciary for ensuring justice prevailed.
