Oyo State prince asks court to nullify the new Alaafin's appointment.

A fresh controversy has erupted over the selection of the new Alaafin of Oyo as Prince Lukman Gbadegesin has filed a lawsuit challenging the appointment of Prince Akeem Owoade. The case, submitted to the Oyo State High Court on February 12, seeks to nullify Owoade’s selection, claiming it was conducted in violation of due process and traditional laws.

Gbadegesin, a prominent contender for the revered stool, argues that his nomination was lawfully approved by the Oyomesi (kingmakers) before the sudden announcement of Owoade’s selection. He insists that Governor Seyi Makinde’s approval of Owoade within just five days was rushed, unconstitutional, and disregarded the Chiefs Law of Oyo State, 2000, as well as the Registered Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration of 1961.

The legal action names Governor Makinde, the Attorney General of Oyo State, and 11 others as defendants, demanding that they appear before the court within 30 days. Gbadegesin, through his legal counsel, Kunle Sobaloju (SAN), is also requesting an injunction to stop Owoade from being crowned or performing any traditional duties associated with the throne.

In his court filings, Gbadegesin stated:

"The selection of the fourth defendant (Owoade) as the Alaafin of Oyo was carried out to the exclusion of rightful kingmakers who were neither suspended nor removed."

He further argued that the decision was made in secrecy, sidelining the traditional selection process, and called for a declaration affirming his own nomination as the valid choice for the throne. Additionally, he is urging the court to restrain the state government from providing Owoade with any financial entitlements or recognizing him as the Alaafin.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government is moving forward with preparations for Owoade’s coronation. A coronation committee has been constituted, holding its first meeting last week to finalize arrangements.

With legal and traditional tensions mounting, all eyes are now on the court’s decision, which could either affirm Owoade’s kingship or upend the selection process entirely.