The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, has revealed that he is currently battling more than 100 court cases filed against him since ascending the throne.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists at his palace in Akure, Ondo State, as part of events marking his 10th coronation anniversary, the monarch said the majority of the lawsuits stem from disputes over the authority and supremacy of his throne within Akure-speaking communities.
Oba Aladelusi described the litigations as the biggest challenge of his reign, lamenting that his role as the prescribed authority over all Akure-speaking communities has been repeatedly contested.
“For the past 10 years, we have encountered several challenges. Right now, there are over 100 active court cases from individuals questioning the legitimacy of the Deji as the prescribed traditional ruler,” he said.
The monarch emphasized that all communities where the Akure dialect is spoken, whether located in Akure North, Akure South, or Ifedore fall under the jurisdiction of the Deji.
“I see every Akure-speaking area as part of Akure. Whether it’s Akure North, South, or Ifedore, they are all Akure people. And historically, the Deji has always been the prescribed authority. I’m not forcing myself on anyone — this is simply our tradition,” he stated.
Oba Aladelusi said he had made efforts to promote peace and unity by engaging with traditional rulers across these communities since assuming the throne.
“When I became Deji, I reached out to other Akure rulers and made it clear that there should be no rivalry with the Deji’s stool. It would be as absurd as me challenging the Ooni or Alaafin, it simply isn’t done,” he said.
He also emphasized the historical significance of the Deji’s throne, asserting that it predates the colonial administration and state structures.
“The Deji’s authority existed long before governors or modern governments. Colonial interference only weakened our traditional influence. Many communities like Iju, Ogbolu, and Ijare were established by descendants of past Dejis. So, there should be no contest for supremacy from Akure North or South,” he added.
The monarch further expressed his hope that an Akure indigene would emerge as the next governor of Ondo State, noting that internal divisions among Akure people have been the major obstacle.
“Every community wants its own son to be governor, but we lack unity. If we had been united earlier, an Akure person would have been governor by now. But I strongly believe the next governor will come from Akure be it Akure North, South, or Ifedore. We are one people,” he said.
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