In a landmark judgment delivered this morning in Ibadan, the Court of Appeal has reaffirmed the decision of the High Court regarding the protracted Bagii chieftaincy dispute in Saki, Oyo State.
The ruling solidifies the position of High Chief Adegoke Ghazaal Alade Olasunkanmi Abdur-Rasheed Adekilutoro I as the rightful holder of the prestigious title.
The legal contest originated from a suit filed by Prince Jimoh Olabode, popularly known as Niyaas, who challenged the legitimacy of High Chief Adegoke Ghazaal’s installation as the Bagii of Saki.
The dispute, which had generated widespread attention and contention within the community, was initially adjudicated by Justice L.A. Ganiyu of the High Court, Saki Judicial Division.
In his ruling, Justice Ganiyu upheld the legitimacy of High Chief Adegoke Ghazaal’s selection and installation, dismissing the claims brought forward by Prince Jimoh Olabode.
Unconvinced by the High Court’s decision, Prince Jimoh Olabode proceeded to the Court of Appeal, seeking to overturn the verdict. However, after a meticulous review of the case, the appellate court upheld the earlier ruling, thereby confirming High Chief Adegoke Ghazaal’s position as the undisputed Bagii of Saki.
This judgment marks the culmination of a prolonged legal battle over the chieftaincy title and is expected to restore peace and stability within the Otun Community and the larger Saki region.
The affirmation of High Chief Adegoke Ghazaal’s legitimacy has been met with widespread jubilation among his supporters and family members, who regard the ruling as a triumph of justice and tradition.
