Residents of Supare-Akoko in Ondo State are uneasy after the state government approved Prince Adewale Fatunsi Richard as the new Olusupare. The decision, made on July 28 by the State Executive Council, was confirmed by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro.
However, this decision is facing backlash from legal counsel representing an opposing candidate, Prince Solomon Animasahun Adelakun. Solicitor Tolu Babaleye contends that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his officials have violated an active court order. Babaleye noted that an interlocutory injunction from the Ondo State High Court in Oka, case HKA/32/2024, explicitly prohibited further action regarding the chieftaincy stool until the lawsuit is resolved.
Babaleye stated that the court proceedings have already reached a late stage, with the next session scheduled for September 23, 2026, for the adoption of final written addresses. He condemned the government’s move as a direct disregard for the judiciary and warned that it undermines the rule of law. The lawyer urged the administration to suspend the appointment immediately to avoid legal consequences. He further warned that failing to reverse the decision would force his team to initiate contempt proceedings against the Governor and other involved officials. The situation has created significant uncertainty within the Supare-Akoko community.
