By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
A Kogi State High Court sitting in Lokoja has removed Alhaji Tijani Ahmed-Anaje as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, ordering him to vacate the throne immediately and refrain from parading himself as the paramount ruler of the Ebira people.
Justice Salisu Umar of High Court VI delivered the ruling on Monday, February 5, 2025, in Suit No. HCO/05C/2024, filed by Dr. Barnabas Adeku Ojiah, Hussain Yusuf, and Abdulrahman Suberu. The plaintiffs had challenged the process of Ahmed-Anaje’s appointment by former Governor Yahaya Bello, arguing that it violated the Edict No. 3 of 1997, which governs ascension to the throne.
The claimants, represented by Lawal Rabana (SAN), contended that Ahmed-Anaje’s selection was conducted by “unknown kingmakers” and did not comply with Section 4(1) of the Kogi State Chiefs Appointment Law (2006).
They sought a declaration that:
The selection process was unlawful and null, the individuals involved in the appointment were not recognized traditional selectors and that the state government should cease to recognise Ahmed-Anaje as the Ohinoyi.
The defense, represented by Muiz Abdullah and Zakari Abbas, argued against the claims and urged the court to dismiss the case for lack of merit.
However, Justice Umar upheld the plaintiffs’ prayers and ruled that Ahmed-Anaje must vacate the stool while a fresh selection process is conducted by the legitimate Ebiraland kingmakers.
Ahmed-Anaje was installed as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland following the demise of HRM Alhaji (Dr) Ado Ibrahim, who died at 94 years old on October 29, 2023.
More than 70 candidates from four of the five eligible districts in Kogi Central had contested for the throne.
With this ruling, the selection process for a new Ohinoyi is expected to be revisited in line with the traditional and legal frameworks guiding the revered position.