Igbomina Socio-Cultural Body Demands Implementation of Supreme Court Judgment on Ganmo Royal Stool
The apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbomina people, known as Omo Ibile Igbomina in Kwara State, has issued a fervent plea to the state government. They are urging immediate action to enforce a Supreme Court judgment from March 2019, which definitively affirmed the exclusive right of the Oluganna lineage to the royal stool of Ganmo, located in Ifelodun Local Government Area.
Call for Justice and Rule of Law
During a press briefing held over the weekend, the group emphasized that there is no valid legal, moral, or administrative justification for the continued delay in implementing this judgment. This delay specifically hinders the rightful ascension of Alhaji Abdulyeqeen Oluwakayode Kolawole to the throne. Speaking on behalf of the organization, National President Bisi Fakayode highlighted the gravity of the situation.
"The prolonged withholding of the Oluganna's Letter of Appointment and Staff of Office represents a troubling disregard for judicial authority and the rule of law," Fakayode stated. He further explained that the judgments from both the Court of Appeal in Ilorin and the Supreme Court are clear, unambiguous, and binding. These rulings are consistent with the findings of a 1978 Arbitration Report, confirming the Oluganna lineage as the sole legitimate custodian of the Ganmo stool, to the exclusion of any other claimants.
Addressing Allegations and Upholding Integrity
Fakayode also addressed circulating reports that implicated former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ayo Salami (retired), in efforts to frustrate the implementation of the judgment. He dismissed these allegations as unfounded and inconsistent with Justice Salami's long-standing record of integrity. "While Igbominas have heard these allegations, we do not believe them. It is inconceivable that a jurist of such repute, under whose leadership the Court of Appeal affirmed this same position, would act in contradiction to the rule of law," he said.
However, Fakayode urged Justice Salami to publicly and unequivocally distance himself from these claims, noting that silence in such a sensitive matter at this crucial time could be misinterpreted. "His Lordship's voice at this time is crucial. A clear statement will dispel any doubts and preserve the sanctity of his hard-earned reputation," he submitted. The organization also cautioned the Sunmonu Okunoye family of Idiape, Ilorin, against further attempts to drag the respected jurist's name into the dispute or undermine his credibility within Igbomina land and beyond.
Government's Constitutional Responsibility
Reiterating its position, Omo Ibile Igbomina stressed that the government bears a constitutional responsibility to protect legally established rights and ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied. "Government must rise above undue influence and political interference. Failure to act decisively in this matter amounts to injustice, oppression, and a dangerous precedent capable of eroding public confidence in our institutions," Fakayode warned.
The body has therefore demanded the immediate release of the Oluganna's Letter of Appointment, prompt presentation of the third Class Staff of Office, and full enforcement of all subsisting court judgments without further delay. Omo Ibile Igbomina reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the preservation of lawful traditional institutions across Igbomina land, while urging all stakeholders to respect and uphold the rule of law.
