The Ojomo of Igbodigo, in Ondo State, High Chief Abayomi Monehin, has dragged the state government before a high court over the regency of the Obagberume of Igbodigo chieftaincy stool in the community.

In the suit filed through Banjo Ayenakin & Co, the claimant joined the government, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government as defendants.

The high chief is seeking the court’s interpretation of the Chiefs Law of Ondo State and the declaration guiding the chieftaincy.

Monehin is also asking the court to declare him the rightful person to be appointed and recognised as regent, pending the installation of a substantive Obagberume, and to compel the defendants to effect his appointment.

He is equally demanding N50 million in damages, alleging that the government’s refusal to appoint a regent despite repeated demands has deprived the community of representation in the state’s traditional council and other attendant benefits.

The suit asks the court to interpret provisions of the Chiefs Law of Ondo state and the declaration guiding the Obagberume of Igbodigo Chieftaincy.

Monehin asked the court to determine whether, under the applicable laws, he is entitled to be appointed and recognised as Regent of the chieftaincy stool.

He is also seeking an order compelling the defendants to effect his appointment, alongside N50 million in damages for alleged failure by the government to act in accordance with the law.

The claimant contends that despite several demands, the state government has refused to appoint a regent, a development he said has denied the community representation in the Ondo State Traditional Council and other attendant benefits.

Monehin argued that despite repeated demands, the state government has failed to appoint a regent in line with the law, a situation he said has deprived the community of representation in the Ondo State Traditional Council and other associated benefits.

The case, which borders on traditional succession and the application of chieftaincy laws, is now before the Ondo State High Court for determination. (Nigerian Tribune)