Court Removes Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Bars Him from Parading as Traditional Ruler

Court Removes Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Bars Him from Parading as Traditional Ruler

Kogi State High Court has made a landmark ruling, nullifying the appointment of Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. This decision, handed down on 3rd of February, marks a significant development in the governance of traditional leadership within the region.

The court, presided over by Justice Salisu Umar, declared that the process leading to Anaje’s selection as Ohinoyi did not follow established customs and legal procedures. The ruling was based on a case filed by concerned stakeholders who argued that the appointment was fraught with irregularities, leaving room for questions about its legitimacy.

Anaje, appointed in January 2024 following the death of the previous Ohinoyi, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, had been expected to assume a leadership role, not just politically but as the cultural head of Ebiraland. However, the court’s judgment has rendered his appointment void and prohibited him from presenting himself as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

The court’s decision paves the way for a new selection process, which must be conducted in strict adherence to the region’s traditional laws and legal frameworks. The ruling has stirred mixed reactions within the community.

Supporters of the decision argue that it upholds the sanctity of cultural practices and ensures the legitimacy of future appointments. They see the court's intervention as a vital check against irregularities that have historically undermined the process of selecting the region’s traditional ruler.

Conversely, Anaje’s supporters have expressed disappointment, noting his contributions to the region and questioning the motivations behind the legal challenge. They warn that the court's ruling may lead to instability and create a prolonged leadership vacuum.

In response to the ruling, Kogi State Government has stated that it will abide by the court's decision and initiate a new selection process for the Ohinoyi. A government spokesperson confirmed that efforts will be made to ensure that the process respects both the traditional system and contemporary legal standards.

The ruling also underscores the delicate balance between traditional governance and the rule of law, reminding stakeholders that leadership structures must align with both cultural expectations and legal guidelines.

As the search for a new Ohinoyi begins, the people of Ebiraland are called to come together to ensure that the selection process is not only transparent but also embodies the values of justice, unity, and cultural integrity. This moment represents a critical juncture for the region, as the choice of the next Ohinoyi will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Ebiraland's traditional leadership.

In Conclusion, this court decision has reaffirmed the need for a careful, methodical approach to the selection of traditional rulers, reinforcing the importance of respect for both legal frameworks and cultural traditions in the governance of Ebiraland.