By Adeosun Christiana Pelumi (SIWES student, D S Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic)
In a recent development at High Court 1 in Oyo town, the case brought against Governor Seyi Makinde and two others regarding the vacant Alaafin stool was dismissed by Justice Ladiran Akintola. The lawsuit was initiated by High Chief Yusuf Ayoola, the Basorun of Oyo town, and four other claimants. Notably, the defendants, including High Chief Ayoola, were absent during the court’s decision.
The case, known as HOY/38/2023, featured additional claimants, including Chief Wakeel Oyedepo, the Akinniku of Oyo; High Chief Amuda Yusuf, Areago Basorun; Chief Waheed Oyetunjii; and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau, the Baale Alapo.
Initially, the lead counsel for the claimants, Barrister Sobaloju, sought to withdraw the case HOY/38/2023 and replace it with a new lawsuit. This decision was made with the intent of filing a fresh suit.
Previously, Barrister Sobaloju had attempted to maintain the status quo concerning two pending motions before the court.
However, this request was denied because the defense counsel argued that they hadn’t filed a counter affidavit for the ex parte motion. Consequently, the court adjourned the case until Thursday.
Surprisingly, when the case reconvened, the counsel representing the claimants chose to withdraw the original case and substitute it with a new one.
Consequently, Justice Ladiran Akintola struck out the initial case and informed the legal representatives that the date for the hearing of the new lawsuit would be communicated in the future.
