A wave of tension has engulfed the Ola community in the Ejigbo Local Government Area of Osun State, following a recent ruling by the High Court, led by Justice Lawrence Arojo, which dethroned Oba Johnson Ajiboye.
Ajiboye was appointed by Governor Ademola Adeleke as the Olola of Ola.
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The community has been grappling with unrest since Governor Adeleke’s appointment of Ajiboye on January 3rd, 2024, despite ongoing legal battles and existing restraining orders.
Dr. Femi Fasanya, the head of the kingmakers, distanced himself and disavowed the installation process of Oba Johnson Ajiboye in January 2024.
In response, the Olugbode family, represented by David Salako and Kola Sangoniran, filed a motion (with suit number HEJ/3/2020) seeking the removal of Oba Johnson Ajiboye and the nullification of his appointment letter by Governor Adeleke.
Justice Arojo granted six interlocutory injunctions in the motion filed by the opposing family on March 25, 2024, citing alleged irregularities.
Speaking on behalf of the family, their lawyer, Barrister Fatimah Adeshina, confirmed that the Olola of Ola throne is now vacant, in accordance with the order issued by the Osun State High Court.
In a petition dated April 10, 2024, addressed to the Osun Police Command, the Olugbode family, led by Kolawole Sangoniran, expressed concerns about potential chaos in Ola.
They alleged that the deposed king planned to confer chieftaincy titles at the Olola of Ola’s palace, urging authorities to prevent any breaches of court orders to avoid a breakdown of law and order.
In response, Ajiboye asserted his legitimacy, stating to The Nation, “I am the authentic king of the land; they have not served me the judgment that removed me.”
The situation remains precarious as the community navigates the aftermath of the court ruling and the looming threat of further discord.
