The Oyomesi, the traditional kingmakers in Oyo, have filed a lawsuit against Governor Seyi Makinde and others, claiming unlawful harassment and intimidation through the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA). They allege that the agency has threatened them with arrests as part of a broader campaign of intimidation.
The dispute originated when Governor Makinde called for a new selection process for the Alaafin of Oyo, a move rejected by the majority of kingmakers who had already chosen a candidate in accordance with legal requirements. The governor subsequently supported a different candidate, leading to further tensions and the decision to seek legal recourse.
In filings with the Federal High Court in Ibadan, three kingmakers—Yusuf Akinade (Basorun of Oyo), Wakeel Akindele (Lagunna of Oyo), and Hamzat Yusuf (Akinniku of Oyo)—are requesting protection for their fundamental human rights and an end to what they describe as the governor’s “witch hunt.”
They allege that on January 21, they received an invitation from OYACA for an investigation, with the letter dated January 20, the day prior. They argue that the harassment and threats of arrest from OYACA, acting under the governor’s orders, are “unwarranted, baseless, unlawful, and unconstitutional,” infringing on their rights to liberty and dignity.
The kingmakers also pointed out that the matter is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and is part of an ongoing appeal, asserting that the actions of OYACA violate legal protocols.