In a recent development, the Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta has declared the installation of Alexander Macgregor as the Olu of Ilawo illegal. The court ruled that the process leading to Macgregor’s installation was flawed and ordered him to stop presenting himself as the monarch.
Justice Olatokunbo Majekodunmi, who presided over the case, criticized the Ogun State Government for proceeding with Macgregor’s installation despite ongoing court cases, stating that it showed a blatant disregard for judicial authority. The court’s decision stemmed from a lawsuit filed by the Ogunsanya-Ariku Royal Family of Ilawo, challenging the nomination process that resulted in Macgregor becoming the Olu.
Allegations of irregularities in the selection process were raised by the family, claiming that traditional warrant chiefs approved by the Ilawo council of chiefs were replaced with unfamiliar names to manipulate the outcome. Justice Majekodunmi stressed the importance of all parties respecting the court’s authority and issued a mandatory injunction for Macgregor to return all symbols of office.
The judge also restored the stool of the Olu of Orile Ilawo to its original status until the case is resolved. In response to the ruling, the Secretary to the Ogunsanya-Ariku dynasty, Dr. David Ogunsanya, praised the judiciary for upholding justice and described the nullification of Macgregor’s installation as a triumph for the rule of law.
The Ogunsanya-Ariku family had taken the matter to court following the death of the former Olu of Ilawo in December 2021, citing manipulation and irregularities in the nomination process. This ruling underscores the court’s commitment to upholding traditional and legal procedures in the face of misconduct.