Chieftaincy Dispute Rocks Osun As Royal Family Challenges Elevation Of Three Obas

The Ataoja Fabode Royal Family of Osogbo has petitioned the Osun State Government over the recognition and elevation of three traditional title holders in Ibokun Local Government Area as Obas, citing concerns over historical ownership and customary jurisdiction.

The family, through its solicitor, Abdulfatai Abdulsalam, has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to suspend the recognition of Moruf Sulaimon, the Olu of Odu; Blessing Olasunkanmi, the Olu of Boredun; and Sulaimon Agbaje, the Olomu of Omu, pending an investigation into their elevations.

A copy of the petition was made available to journalists in Osogbo on Saturday, with Abdulsalam raising concerns about the historical ownership and territorial authority associated with the three traditional titles.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the solicitor argued that the affected communities fall within the ancestral domain and historical jurisdiction of Osogbo, particularly areas allegedly belonging to the Ataoja Fabode Royal Family.

He maintained that the matter extends beyond the recognition of the three traditional title holders, raising broader questions about territorial boundaries, customary authority, historical ownership and the limits of traditional institutions’ jurisdiction.

The family is therefore requesting an independent and impartial investigation to establish the historical and customary boundaries of Osogbo and the affected communities of Odu, Boredun and Omu.

Abdulsalam also called on the state government to investigate the family’s ancestral ownership and historical jurisdiction over the disputed territories, as well as examine the legal and customary procedures followed in approving the elevations.

The solicitor further urged the government to review the roles played by relevant local government authorities and other statutory institutions in initiating or recommending the recognition of the three traditional rulers.

He asked Governor Adeleke to direct the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and other relevant agencies to release documents relating to the appointments, including recommendations, approvals, boundary records and other official instruments.

The family also wants the affected traditional institutions to be given an opportunity to present historical records, documentary evidence and customary claims before the government reaches a final decision.

Warning of possible consequences, Abdulsalam said unresolved territorial and chieftaincy disputes could trigger communal tension, resentment and confrontation, potentially threatening peace and security in the affected communities.

He consequently appealed to the governor to prevent any action capable of changing existing territorial arrangements until the proposed investigation has been concluded.

The solicitor stressed that the petition was not intended to undermine any traditional institution or the aspirations of the affected communities, but to ensure that government decisions are guided by legality, historical justice and fairness.

He also requested a written response from the governor outlining the steps being taken to address the family’s concerns, while stating that the family reserves the right to pursue legal action if necessary.