By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oyo State, Oba Francis Alao has welcomed the court ruling that confirms his selection and enthronement at the monarch of the ancient town.
The monarch, who is the Vice Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs said with the judgement, there is no Victor, nor vanquished.
In a statement he personally signed and issued on Sunday, Oba Alao who commended the judiciary for the judgement also called on all Princes and Princesses of the town to embrace the decision of the kingmakers and the government in the interest of peace and progress of Orile-Igbon.
He urged them to put the issues behind them and join hands to develop Orile-Igbon together.
Oba Alao said, “A crucial litigation against my enthronement as the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon came to an end last week with the judgment of an Oyo State High Court striking out the suit.
“In his judgement, Justice K. A. Adedokun held that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the suit because the claimants lacked the locus standi to institute the case
“I welcome this sound judgement from the temple of justice, and I am taking this opportunity to express my profound appreciation to the judiciary for dispensing justice after a painstaking review of the positions canvassed by both parties.
“The judgment brought justice to the parties and more importantly, to the ancient town of Orile-Igbon. Truly, the judiciary remains the hope of all citizens.
“With justice dispensed, I sincerely extend my hands of love again to all Olugbon princes and princesses who, I believe, also want the progress of Orile-Igbon.
“I urge them to embrace the decision of the kingmakers and the government in the interest of peace and progress of Orile-Igbon. Only God enthrones, and He crowns whoever He chooses.
Let us put this behind us and join hands to develop Orile-Igbon together.
“Certainly, there is no loser or winner in this case.
“Orile-Igbon, which is bigger than all indigenes, is the beneficiary. While generations of indigenes come and go, Orile-Igbon remains for unborn generations who will carry on the great heritage of our ancient town.
“I thank the chiefs, community leaders other stakeholders in Orile-Igbon for standing by us this far.
“May the Almighty God grant our desire for the peace and development of Orile-Igbon.”
