A group, Patriotic Youth for Good Leadership, has called the attention of the Kogi state government and the general public to the alleged clandestine event of the night of May 17, 2024, perpetuated by the Mopa Traditional Council (MTC) at the Mopa township hall, where Chief Muyiwa Ibeun was installed as the new Elulu of Mopa.
Ibeun was installed as Elulu of Mopa by Kingmakers led by Chief David Saul Olojo, after performing the traditional rites.
However, the group, in a statement on Saturday, described the action as gross violation of an existing restraining order by the Kogi State High Court, Koton Karfe.
The statement signed by Bolaji Matthew said the kingmakers’ action do not only negate civility, rather against Kogi State government and a pending High Court Koton-karfe order restraining further action on the matter pending the determination of the suit.
They condemned the Mopa Traditional Council for defying court order and Kogi State Government.
“The existing chieftaincy rotational agreement was between the four Ruling Houses in the area and the matter is pending before the High Court, Koton-Karfe.
“The selection and nomination process of the next Elulu is being challenged, based on the existing chieftaincy rotational agreement between the 4 Ruling Houses in Mopa. We were surprised to hear about his installation despite restraining order,” the group said.
The group recalled that the High Court setting in Koton-Karfe, Kogi Local Government Area of the state had in a ruling issued an interim order directing all parties to maintain status quo ante.
“This is a clear indication of a determined intent of MTC to disrespect legal process and overturn justice.
“We are surprised by the speed and secrecy associated with this illegal installation event of a first class Oba supervising not only Mopa but the entire Mopamuro traditional council.”
“We reiterate our stand that while we await the court decision on this matter, all parties must respect the rule of law and abide by the principles of fairness and justice. We also call on the Executive Governor to direct the security agencies to investigate those involved in this illegality.”
