Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja has sacked and invalidated the appointment and installation of Prince Bayo Iginla as the Olu of Iju Ishaga, citing a wilful breach of an existing court order.
Therefore, Justice (Dr) L.A.M. Folami, delivering a decisive ruling, condemned the installation as a direct affront to judicial authority and due process.
The Claimants, Chief Adams Akande Balogun, Mr Bashiru Alamu Balogun, and Mr Rasheed Adewole Balogun representing the Arayomi Aiyeteru Ruling Family, had gone to court asserting their right to produce the next traditional ruler of Iju Ishaga.
They argued that the recent installation violated a subsisting order made on December 18, 2024, which directed all parties to maintain the status quo.
The court went on to cancel the state government’s approval, nullify the installation, and barred Prince Iginla from presenting himself as the Olu of Iju Ishaga.
ALSO READ
Government officials involved in the matter were also ordered to stop giving him any form of recognition.
All parties were given 14 days to show proof that they have obeyed the judgment.
Citing key precedents, including Statoil (Nig.) Ltd v Star Deep Waters Petroleum Ltd and NDIC v Savannah Bank, Justice Folami emphasised that mandatory injunctions are warranted where litigants attempt to pre-empt court decisions by rushing through questionable acts during trial.
The judgement, delivered with finality and clarity, not only underscores the importance of respecting the Judiciary in chieftaincy matters, but also serves as a caution to public office holders and traditional institutions that the rule of law must prevail, above executive fiat or customary pressure.
