New Alaafin: Oyomesi Sue Governor Seyi Makinde for Defamation of Character

By Dansu Peter  The Oyomesi, the revered kingmakers of Oyo Kingdom, have filed a defamation lawsuit against His Excellency, Governor Seyi Ma...

By Dansu Peter 

The Oyomesi, the revered kingmakers of Oyo Kingdom, have filed a defamation lawsuit against His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, over alleged defamatory remarks and baseless accusations of bribery leveled against them in connection with the selection process for the Alaafin of Oyo, Badagry Today understands 

In a statement issued by their legal representatives, the Oyomesi, led by High Chief Yusuf Akinade Ayoola Layinka (Bashorun of Oyo), vehemently denied all allegations of bribery and condemned the Governor’s repeated public accusations, which they described as an unjust attack on their integrity.  

The Oyomesi stated that despite the gravity of the allegations, Governor Makinde has failed to produce any evidence or formally lodge complaints with law enforcement agencies. They further alleged that the accusations were part of a broader effort to discredit and undermine the legitimate selection process for the Alaafin's stool, which culminated in the selection of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin as the Alaafin-elect.  

The statement also highlighted the following:  

1. Baseless Petition: The petition instigated by a faceless organization, "Global Anti-Corruption Initiative," and signed by one Mayowa Titiloye, lacked substance and credibility.  
2. Unlawful Appointment: Governor Makinde’s unilateral appointment of Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as Alaafin of Oyo, without recourse to due process, was in violation of the Chiefs Law and the Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy Declaration.  
3. Judicial Endorsement: A court ruling in December 2022 affirmed the legitimacy of the Oyomesi's selection process, rejecting claims that it was flawed or influenced by bribery.  

The Oyomesi also expressed their dismay at the Governor's reliance on hearsay and unverified claims to tarnish their reputation, as well as his disregard for the sanctity of Oyo's traditional institutions.  

In their demand, the Oyomesi have requested the following from Governor Makinde:  

1. A public retraction of all defamatory statements.  
2. A formal letter of apology.  
3. An immediate cessation of further defamatory comments.  

The Oyomesi affirmed their commitment to upholding the traditions and customs of the Oyo Kingdom and emphasized that public attacks on their character undermine the integrity of the throne and the cultural heritage of the Oyo people.  

This lawsuit serves as a warning against the politicization of traditional institutions and a call for all stakeholders to respect the sanctity of the Alaafin's stool. The Oyomesi reaffirmed their readiness to pursue all legal avenues to protect their reputation and preserve the dignity of their office.