Lagos, Nigeria — A fresh controversy has erupted over the prestigious Eletu-Odibo chieftaincy title in Lagos Island as the 14 recognized branches of the ruling Eletu-Odibo family have formally petitioned Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, rejecting the purported nomination of Engineer Prince Ajibade Ismail Nosiru Ayeni.
In a protest letter addressed to the Governor, the family’s legal representatives, acting on behalf of accredited leaders including Chief Rashidi Onilere and Alhaji Imam Abdul Ramon Mogaji, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the recommendation of Prince Ajibade.
They argued that the selection was irregular, stating that Ajibade is not a blood descendant of the Eletu-Odibo lineage.
Citing ongoing litigation (Suit No: LD/4135LM/2022), the petitioners claim that the ancestry of Prince Ajibade’s grandfather, Alhaji Rafiu Saka, is already being challenged in court.
“The family has publicly disclaimed any blood connection with him through several published notices,” the petition read.
The letter further accuses the Olorogun Ide of Lagos of manipulating the selection process and misleading the Oba of Lagos by presenting a “fraudulent letter of recommendation” allegedly authored by the family.
According to the protest, the Olorogun Ide also barred members of the Eletu-Odibo family from accessing their palace and shrine, intensifying internal conflict.
The family emphasized that any attempt by the Lagos State Attorney General, the law firm of Kayode Sofola & Associates, or any other party to interpret a Supreme Court judgment on a subject matter that is currently before the Lagos State High Court constitutes a serious act of contempt.
“It is not within the purview of these parties to make legal conclusions on a live issue before the court. Doing so undermines judicial authority and due process,” the petition warned.
In contrast, the family stated that a popular Ifa divination process held on December 16, 2023, had already produced Prince Ademijuwon Raimi Ajose as the rightful candidate, with the support of all 14 family branches and other contestants.
The petitioners called on Governor Sanwo-Olu and relevant authorities to investigate the matter and halt any official recognition of Prince Ajibade.
They also requested that the state government intervene to restore peace and uphold the sanctity of tradition.
Copies of the letter were also sent to the Attorney General of Lagos State and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
