The Lagos State High Court has directed all parties involved in the ongoing Oloja of Lagos chieftaincy dispute to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the substantive suit before it.
The order was issued by Justice A.M. Lawal during proceedings in a case challenging aspects of the selection process for the traditional stool. The court also affirmed Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko as the Oloja-elect, while directing that no action should be taken by any party that could prejudice the outcome of the case until the matter is fully determined.
The dispute centres on the succession to the Oloja of Lagos stool, with rival claimants contesting the process that produced Prince Olojo-Kosoko as the Oloja-elect. The litigation has drawn significant attention among members of the Lagos traditional institution and the affected ruling houses.
During the hearing, counsel to the parties urged the court to preserve the subject matter of the suit to prevent actions that could render its eventual judgment ineffective. Justice Lawal subsequently ordered all parties to maintain the existing situation pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The court stressed that the directive was intended to preserve peace and ensure that none of the parties gained an undue advantage while the legal process continues.
Legal practitioners say an order to maintain the status quo is a common judicial measure aimed at preventing further developments that could complicate or frustrate the resolution of a dispute.
The case was thereafter adjourned to a later date for the continuation of proceedings.
The Oloja of Lagos stool is one of the traditional institutions in Lagos, and disputes over its succession have periodically found their way to the courts. The latest ruling means that no further steps affecting the chieftaincy position are expected until the court delivers its decision on the substantive issues before it.
