ABEOKUTA – The Ilawo Traditional Council has reacted to reports suggesting that the Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta Division, had passed a judgment removing Oba Alexander Macgregor as the Olu of Orile Ilawo, Ogun State.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Council clarified that no such judgment was delivered on January 28th, 2025, contrary to what he describes as misleading information being peddled.
The Council emphasized that Suit No 789/2022, which addresses the status of His Majesty, remains pending before the honorable court, with proceedings adjourned until March 19th, 2025.
Addressing the directives issued by the court during proceedings, the Council explained that these directives were aimed at maintaining the status quo pending the final determination of the suit.
They reaffirmed that His Majesty had been rightfully selected and was the Oba Elect at the time the suit was filed, underscoring the validity of his selection process.
Regarding the court’s interlocutory ruling, the Council acknowledged the existence of a pending appeal and clarified that the ruling’s effect hinges upon the outcome of this appeal process.
They stressed that any suggestion of the nullification of His Majesty’s selection process is baseless and mischievous, designed to mislead the public and undermine the stability of the Ilawo kingdom.
“We urge the indigenes of Ilawo, our friends, and well-wishers to disregard these misleading publications,” the Council stated firmly. They expressed confidence in the legal process, reaffirming their commitment to upholding due process and seeking justice through lawful means.
The Council also extended gratitude to the community and supporters for their unwavering support during this challenging period.
They reassured the public of their dedication to protecting the traditions and integrity of the Ilawo kingdom.
“We are not unaware that the honourable court gave some directives in the course of proceedings in this matter. The directives only reversed the position of parties to status quo pending the determination of the suit before the court.
“Status quo in this regard means the position before the suit was filed. You will agree that His Majesty, the Olu Orile Ilawo had been selected and was the Oba Elect as at the time the suit was filed.
“We have considered the court’s interlocutory ruling and as at the time of this publication, there is a pending Appeal in respect of the Interlocutory Ruling.
“There is need to mention that the Appeal at the Court of Appeal must be determined one way or the other before the Ruling can take effect.
“In any event, interlocutory ruling delivered by the high court is temporary. It is only effective while the suit is pending and will expire upon the conclusion of the suit.
“We wish to state that any publisher who mentions that the court nullified the selection process of His Majesty, the Olu Orile Ilawo, is mischievous. His Majesty had been selected before the suit was filed at the High Court. Therefore, his majesty’s selection remains valid, notwithstanding the interlocutory ruling of the High Court.
“In light of the above, we implore the indigenes of Ilawo, our friends and well – wishers to disregard the publications and treat same as desperate efforts of enemies of Ilawo kingdom.
“The Ilawo Council of Chiefs are on top of the situation. We are resolute to follow due process of the law and we are confident that the courts will dispense justice accordingly.
“We appreciate the concerns of the good people of Ilawo, our friends and well – wishers who have been reaching out to us to express supports and belief in our course. May the good Lord bless us all.”
