The Ikale nationality in Ondo South Senatorial District has accused the state Property and Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force of undermining a 2019 judgment of the Ondo State High Court. The task force is headed by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo. The judgment was delivered in a suit filed by the Paramount Ruler of Ikale Land, Oba G. B. Faduyile, on behalf of himself and the Ikale nation.
The monarch has filed a fresh suit at the State High Court, seeking an order to protect the sanctity of the 2019 judgment and restrain the Task Force from interfering with his traditional authority over Kajola community and seven other towns and villages. He is also seeking similar protection for chiefs and representatives appointed by him to oversee the affected communities. The monarch wants the court to declare that the Task Force lacks constitutional jurisdiction to review or obstruct the execution of a High Court judgment.
Chief Kehinde Oloruntobi Maiyegun, appointed by the monarch to oversee Kajola Community, has filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Akure, seeking enforcement of his fundamental rights. Maiyegun alleges that the Task Force and its officials have harassed him and interfered with his freedom of movement. He was invited by the agency to appear at its Akure office, which he honoured in the company of his lawyer.
Maiyegun's suit followed a petition from Tayo Kolawole, who alleged that Maiyegun threatened his life and damaged his property at Kajola. Maiyegun claims that the property is part of land won by the Abodi, which he was appointed to oversee. He reported the matter to the Kajola Police Station, where Kolawole was arrested and cautioned.
The Task Force's actions have raised concerns over the agency's jurisdiction and potential interference with the High Court judgment. Maiyegun's counsel had argued that the agency lacks jurisdiction to review or obstruct execution of the judgment, but the Task Force has refused to discontinue the matter. Maiyegun has been invited to appear again on October 20.
The suits filed by the monarch and Maiyegun seek to protect their rights and traditional authority. The cases have been served on the relevant parties, including the state Attorney-General, but no date has been fixed for hearing. The Task Force's actions have created uncertainty over the enforcement of the 2019 court judgment.
The development has sparked concerns over the relationship between traditional authorities and state agencies in Nigeria. The cases highlight the need for clarity on the jurisdiction and powers of state agencies, particularly in matters involving traditional authorities and land disputes.
Key points
- The Ikale monarch and chief have sought protection against the state Property and Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, citing unconstitutional interference with a 2019 court judgment.
- The Task Force's actions have raised concerns over its jurisdiction and potential interference with the High Court judgment.
- The suits filed by the monarch and Maiyegun seek to protect their rights and traditional authority.
