REBUTTAL TO ILLEGAL AND MISLEADING CLAIMS ON THE SUPREME COURT VERDICT REGARDING THE OBARO OF KABBA STOOL
The recent statement released by the Ilajo Family and published by Noah Peter grossly misrepresents the judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria delivered on Friday, May 16, regarding the Obaro of Kabba Stool. It is imperative to set the record straight and expose the false narrative being peddled.
1. The Supreme Court Did Not Rule Against HRM Oba Dele Owoniyi
The Supreme Court did not rule on the substance of the matter regarding the legitimacy of HRM Oba Dele Owoniyi’s appointment. The Apex Court merely upheld the procedural right of the Ilajo Family to be heard at the High Court, nothing more.
What the Court affirmed was that the claim was not statute-barred and that the High Court erred in refusing to hear the case on its merits. It did not make any declaration validating the claims that HRM Oba Dele Owoniyi is an “interloper” or “usurper,” as wrongfully insinuated in the statement by the Ilajo Family.
2. Oba Dele Owoniyi’s Appointment Was Lawful and Customary
Oba Dele Owoniyi was duly appointed by the Kogi State Government in 2018, following established customs and traditions of the Owe people and in accordance with relevant statutory procedures. His selection was endorsed by the competent kingmakers and formalized under state law. These facts remain unchallenged and undisturbed by the Supreme Court ruling.
3. The Legal Battle is Far from Over
Contrary to the triumphalist tone of the Ilajo Family’s statement, the matter has not been decided in their favour. No right to the Obaro Stool has been granted to them. What lies ahead is a fresh hearing at the High Court where both parties will now present their evidence and legal arguments for adjudication on the merits of the case. Until such a hearing is concluded and a judgment delivered, no one can claim legal victory or declare HRM Dele Owoniyi’s reign illegitimate.
4. Call for Calm and Respect for the Rule of Law
We call on the public to disregard the misleading claims being circulated. This is not a victory for any side, but rather a reaffirmation of due process. We urge all sons and daughters of Kabba, and indeed all stakeholders, to remain calm and allow the rule of law and justice to take their proper course.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s judgment does not dethrone, discredit, or delegitimize His Royal Majesty, Oba Dele Owoniyi, who remains the lawfully recognized and traditionally endorsed Obaro of Kabba. Any interpretation or public commentary suggesting otherwise is false, premature, and aimed at inciting division within the Kabba community.
We await the fair hearing now ordered by the Supreme Court with confidence that truth, custom, and the law will again vindicate the rightful occupant of the stool.
High Chief Obaradeyo of Oweland
