The Court of Appeal in Ibadan, Oyo State overturned a High Court decision that voided the selection and installation of Afolabi Olaoye as the Soun of Ogbomoso.
The Court of Appeal announced its ruling on Tuesday, February 18, ruling that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case.
In October 2023, a high court in Ogbomoso declared the selection and installation of Afolabi as invalid. Presidency Judge Ka Adedokun ruled that his nomination did not comply with the legal provisions of choosing Ogbomoso. The case was filed by Kabir Olaoye, one of the stool competitors, and six others.
Afolabi is a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), installed in September 2023 by Kingmakers as the new name of Ogbomoso by the palace Sobalaje Otolorin lead. His appointment was approved by Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde, but some members of the royal family opposed his choice.
A three-member appeals court led by Justice Yargata Nimpar ruled that the defendants failed to follow administrative procedures, i.e., formally notifying the government about their dissatisfaction with the selection before the lower court brought the case.
The Court of Appeal ruled Aforabi’s ruling on all ten reasons for the appeal and insisted on his choice and installation as Ogbomosouen.
