- Oba Odebola Julius Odeyemi Affirmed as Legitimate Obaloko-Elect
The serene town of Iloko in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State has in recent months found itself at the center of a royal tussle. However, the storm appears to be calming after the High Court of Justice, Lokoja Division, issued a restraining order against Mr. Soji Aro, barring him from parading or presenting himself as the Obaloko of Iloko.
In Suit No: KGS/IHC/11/2023, the court, in a considered ruling, ordered that Mr. Aro should not perform any duties, functions, or exercise any authority in the capacity of Obaloko pending the final determination of the substantive case. The decision, which has been described as a “victory for truth and tradition,” has been widely welcomed by the people of Iloko.
The Origin of the Dispute
The tussle for the Obaloko stool began after the passing of the last monarch, when multiple interests emerged over the rightful successor. According to Iloko’s traditional succession order, the throne rotates among the ruling houses, with the Odoaofin royal clan next in line to produce the new Obaloko.
In line with this tradition, the Iloko Council of Elders and Kingmakers convened several meetings and, after thorough consultations, unanimously nominated and endorsed Oba Odebola Julius Odeyemi as the legitimate Obaloko-Elect.
However, the peace was short-lived when Mr. Soji Aro reportedly began to parade himself as the Obaloko, performing certain traditional and public functions in that capacity. His actions, community members said, were not only in violation of Iloko’s customs but also a direct affront to the authority of the Kingmakers.
Court Steps In
The matter was brought before the Lokoja High Court, which after hearing preliminary arguments, restrained Mr. Aro from parading, holding out, or presenting himself as the Obaloko of Iloko. The court also warned that any further violation of its order would amount to contempt of court.
In its interim ruling, the court emphasized the need to maintain peace and respect for traditional due process pending the resolution of the substantive suit.
Community Reaction
Reacting to the development, a senior member of the Iloko Council of Elders described the ruling as “a triumph of law, order, and our cultural heritage.”
“Iloko people are peace-loving,” he said. “We only seek justice and adherence to our time-honored customs. The court has done well to protect the sanctity of our traditional institution.”
The community has also called on government agencies, security operatives, and traditional councils to uphold the court’s decision and recognize only Oba Odebola Julius Odeyemi as the legitimate Obaloko-Elect.
The Way Forward
Residents have expressed optimism that the court’s decision will restore harmony and prevent further impersonation or abuse of the revered throne. Many believe the judgment sets a precedent for how chieftaincy disputes should be handled across Kogi State—through lawful and peaceful means rather than confrontation.
For now, Iloko awaits the formal installation of Oba Odebola Julius Odeyemi, whose ascension to the throne is seen by many as both a fulfillment of tradition and a symbol of unity for the ancient town.
