By Capital Watch Media
A High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has removed Alhaji Ahmed Muhammed Tijani Anaje as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, ruling that he should cease parading himself as the paramount ruler.
The judgement was delivered on Monday by Justice Salisu Umar of High Court 6 in Lokoja. The court ruled in favour of the claimants challenging Anaje’s appointment.
Anaje was appointed in January 2024 by the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in the final days of his administration.
The decision was contested in court by Dr. Barnabas Adeku Ojiah and two others.
The case, registered as Suit Number HCO/05C/2024, listed the Governor of Kogi State as a respondent.
The claimants argued that due process was not followed in Anaje’s selection.
“The court has made it clear that the appointment did not adhere to the necessary legal procedures,” said a legal source familiar with the case.
Though the full details of the judgement have not yet been released, the ruling effectively removes Anaje from the royal position.
The court’s directive bars him from acting in any official capacity as Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.
A resident of Ebiraland, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “This decision has divided opinions in the community, with some supporting the court’s stance while others remain loyal to Anaje.”
The ruling raises questions about the future leadership of Ebiraland, as the selection of a new Ohinoyi may now follow a different legal and traditional process.
There has been no official response from Anaje or his representatives regarding the court’s decision.
The state government is also yet to issue a statement on the matter.
Observers say the ruling could set a precedent for future appointments of traditional rulers in Kogi State, particularly regarding compliance with established legal frameworks.
