The peaceful kingdom of Ijeshaland, located in Osun State, is at the heart of a growing dispute that has sparked a legal battle and heightened tensions within the royal family and across the region. At the center of this controversy is the installation of Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, a position considered a revered symbol of authority and tradition. However, the Ofokutu Royal Dynasty, one of the leading families within the kingdom, has raised serious concerns over the legality of Haastrup’s ascension to the throne, accusing the state government and Governor Ademola Adeleke of bypassing traditional practices and imposing an unsuitable candidate on the people.
In what has now become a legal showdown, the Ofokutu family is challenging Haastrup’s coronation in court, claiming that it violates established customs and traditions. According to Prince Adebanji Obembe Ofokutu, a prominent member of the royal family, the process used to select Haastrup as the new monarch was deeply flawed and politically motivated. “It’s the turn of the Ofokutu family to provide the candidate for the throne. The other ruling house has had its time,” Obembe said during a press briefing held shortly after the court hearing.
The dispute centers on the Ofokutu family’s contention that the Haastrup family, which has held the throne twice in the past, is attempting to usurp the position again, despite the Ofokutu family’s rightful claim. “The Haastrup family, which has already ruled twice, illegally hijacked the throne, using the power of the state apparatus to undermine our rights,” Prince Obembe charged, further alleging that the installation ceremony was tainted with irregularities and a lack of transparency.
Princess Oluwatoyin Faloye, née Obembe, a key member of the family, also expressed deep dissatisfaction with the process and accused the government of manipulating the election. “The state demanded a N10 million fee from each contestant just to stand a chance for the throne. This is not only discriminatory but also contrary to the true spirit of our customs,” she said.
At the heart of the controversy is the claim by the Ofokutu family that the state government ignored an existing court injunction that had put a halt to Haastrup’s installation. According to court records, the family had filed a legal challenge to stop the proceedings, but the state proceeded with Haastrup’s coronation despite the injunction. “We are not opposed to the selection of a new king, but we are adamant that the process must follow due tradition and due process. The government cannot disregard the law in this manner,” Princess Faloye asserted.
The Ofokutu family’s legal action follows a series of contentious events, including the official installation of Haastrup as the Owa Obokun in December 2024. During the ceremony, Governor Adeleke presented the staff of office to the new monarch, following the death of the previous Owa Obokun, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, who had ruled for an impressive 42 years. In his address, Governor Adeleke urged Haastrup to embrace the role of a “father of all,” emphasizing the need for unity and the development of Ijeshaland. “We expect him to use his wealth of experience to guide the people and lead them towards greater prosperity,” the governor stated during the official presentation.
However, the Ofokutu family has expressed their disappointment at the governor’s involvement, claiming that his actions were politically motivated. “It’s clear that the state is using its influence to manipulate the process, and we will not allow this to go unchallenged,” Prince Obembe declared, stressing the family’s determination to pursue justice through the legal system.
The legal battle is set to continue in the coming months, with the Osun State High Court, Ilesa Division, scheduled to hold further proceedings on March 6, 2025. The Ofokutu family remains resolute in its demand for a fair and transparent process, one that adheres to the traditional customs of Ijeshaland. “This is not just about one family or one throne; it’s about upholding the integrity of our traditions and ensuring that justice is served,” Obembe concluded.
As the case progresses, the eyes of the people of Ijeshaland and beyond remain fixed on the unfolding drama. Should the Ofokutu family succeed in their legal action, it could result in a significant shift in the political and traditional landscape of Osun State. For now, however, the future of the Owa Obokun title remains uncertain, with both sides preparing for what could be a lengthy and hard-fought legal battle.
For many, this dispute serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between traditional authority and modern political influence, and the enduring importance of upholding cultural practices in the face of change. Whether the Ofokutu family’s efforts will be enough to reclaim the throne or if the Haastrup family’s claim will stand remains to be seen.
