The Sanusi Olawunmi Family in Abule Ado, Lagos, has taken legal action against Mr. Suleiman Surajudeen Aro for allegedly declaring himself the traditional ruler (Oba) of the community, despite a court order stopping any such appointment.
They have issued a formal notice of contempt of court against him, warning that if he continues to ignore the court’s directive to maintain the current state of affairs, he could face imprisonment.
This warning was officially filed through a court form dated April 8, 2025.
The dispute, currently before the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, involves members of the Sanusi Olawunmi Family, who are asking the court to recognise them, alongside the Ado Family, as a legitimate ruling house.
They believe they have the right under native law to present a candidate for the Oba position and are asking the court to prevent anyone else from nominating or installing a king until the legal case is resolved.
The court had earlier ruled on January 15, 2025, that no action should be taken regarding the kingship while the case is ongoing.
Despite this, Mr. Aro allegedly went ahead to get installed as Oba, reportedly with the support of the Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government.
It’s said this was done without the knowledge or approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The matter, which includes several top government officials as defendants, has now been adjourned until May 19, 2025.
Lawyers on both sides had earlier agreed to maintain the status quo until a final decision is made by the court.
