“Obaship Dispute Settled” — Supreme Court Nullifies Onakade’s Installation, Declares Alakenne Stool Vacant

The Supreme Court has brought an end to the protracted Alakenne of Ikenne Remo chieftaincy dispute in Ogun State, nullifying the installation of Oba Mosudi Adeyinka Onakade and declaring the stool vacant.

In its judgment delivered on Thursday, the apex court upheld the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, which found that Onakade’s emergence was in violation of the 1998 Alakenne Chieftaincy Declaration. The court held that the process leading to his installation was illegal, null and void, and accordingly set aside his approval. It also restrained him from parading himself as the Alakenne of Ikenne.

The ruling marks a significant turning point in the long-standing legal battle between supporters of Onakade and Prince Yomi Ademola Adeyiga-Adeneye, who had challenged the 2011 installation.

The dispute originated following the death of Oba Gilbert Akindoyin Awomuti, which triggered competing claims among various ruling houses over succession to the throne. Although an Ogun State High Court had upheld Onakade’s installation in 2020, the Court of Appeal overturned that decision in March 2024, a position now affirmed by the Supreme Court.

The apex court emphasised that the 1998 Alakenne Chieftaincy Declaration remains the valid legal framework governing the selection of a new monarch. However, it clarified that Onakade is not barred from participating in any fresh selection process.

The court also dismissed an appeal filed by the Ogun State Government in the matter.

Reacting to the judgment, Prince Adeyiga-Adeneye described the decision as a victory for the people of Ikenne, calling for calm and reconciliation.

“Peace and reconciliation should prevail. Ikenne is free at last,” he said, while urging residents to remain peaceful amid potential tensions following the ruling.