Oyo Court restrains Govt from appointing new Aresaadu of Iresaadu
An Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has issued a ruling prohibiting the Oyo State Government from appointing a new Aresaadu of Iresaadu, located in the Surulere Local Government Area.
Justice K.A. Adedokun, presiding over the case, determined that the Aresaadu position is not currently vacant, negating the need for a new appointment or nomination. This decision was made during proceedings on Friday regarding a lawsuit filed by Oba Abraham Adeyeye Oyerinde, the incumbent Aresaadu of Iresaadu, who was appointed in 2019 during the administration of the former governor.
The court’s ruling, which became public on Tuesday morning, confirms that Oyerinde sought legal action to prevent the state government from designating another individual for the role of traditional ruler.
In the case, referenced as suit number HOI/6/2026, Justice Adedokun granted Oyerinde’s request following considerations presented by his attorney, Mr. S.T.A. Raji. The judge issued an injunction that restrains the state government, along with the Emiolu ruling house and local kingmakers, from nominating, appointing, or endorsing any candidates for the Aresaadu position.
Furthermore, Justice Adedokun ordered that no actions be taken regarding the Aresaadu position until the court addresses the motion on notice in its final determination.
In delivering the ruling, Adedokun asserted that the evidence presented demonstrated a potential threat to Oyerinde’s rights, necessitating protection by the court. He noted, “The circumstances of this case make it one of the deserving instances when an interim order should be granted. Consequently, I found merit in the application and it is granted as prayed.”
