Wasiu Ayinde Anifowofe’s Legal Victory: An Epistle to the Sons and Daughters of Ijebu Land

Let the drums of gratitude resound across Ijebu land, and let every heart give thanks for courage nobly displayed. At a time when silence could have bred chaos, one man chose the path of truth, law and responsibility.

Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Olasunkanmi Anifowofe Marshal stood firm where many would have stepped aside. He took a bold and historic step by approaching the court of law, not for personal gain or selfish ambition, but for the collective dignity, peace and future of the Ijebu people.

At the heart of this struggle was the sacred institution of the Awujale stool, an institution too revered to be entangled in illegality and endless litigation. Wasiu challenged the existence and actions of the so-called illegal Awujale interregnum committee, a body that disregarded established procedures and violated the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, 2021.

With courage and clarity, he asked the court to halt a flawed process, one that failed to follow due procedure, tradition or the rule of law. By doing so, he shielded Ijebu land from the grave danger of installing an Awujale whose reign would have been burdened by controversy and prolonged court battles.

History will record that even before the court could sit, the government, in a rare but telling move, terminated the entire process. By publicly admitting that due process had not been followed, the government effectively acknowledged its error. The termination of the process ahead of the court date was, in essence, an admission of wrongdoing.

Justice therefore prevailed without prolonged litigation. The purpose of the suit was achieved, for when the cause of an action ceases to exist, there is no need to continue the legal battle.

Every true son and daughter of Ijebu land has cause to rejoice. This victory belongs to all. It is a triumph for tradition, legality, wisdom and the future of the land.

We salute Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, a man of courage, conscience and commitment. A man who chose law over silence, truth over convenience, and posterity over momentary comfort.

May history remember him kindly. May Ijebu land remain protected from illegality. And may the throne of the Awujale be occupied only through justice, law and honour.

Glory to Ijebu land.

Honour to courage.

Respect to Otunba Wasiu Ayinde Marshal.