By Peace Udugba
The Edo State High Court has ordered the deposed Onojie of Ewu, Prince Rasak Yesufu Ogiefo, and the Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Pauline Irusota, to appear before it on July 21, 2026, to explain why they should not be committed to prison for alleged contempt of court.
Justice Omotosho issued the order after hearing an application filed by the claimant, His Royal Highness Jafaru Isesele I, in the protracted Ewu chieftaincy dispute.
The application seeks the committal of the two respondents over their alleged disobedience of the judgment delivered in Suit No. B/457/2001 concerning the Ewu traditional stool.
The dispute, which has lasted about 29 years, has been litigated through the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.
Commenting on the development, the report’s author, Monday Eboigbe, urged the deposed monarch to respect the Supreme Court’s judgment, noting that further actions contrary to the court’s decision would only deepen tensions in the community.
He also advised Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to present the Staff of Office to the duly recognised Onojie in line with the court’s decision and continue with the developmental projects of his administration.
Eboigbe further urged the governor to avoid any action that could be interpreted as undermining the judgment of the Supreme Court, stressing that the judiciary remains the final authority in the administration of justice.
According to him, the deposed Onojie lost the case at the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and ultimately at the Supreme Court, making the apex court’s decision final and binding.
The matter has been adjourned to July 21, 2026, when the respondents are expected to appear before the court to answer the contempt proceedings.
