From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State High Court, has dismissed a legal attempt to halt the annual Oro Day celebration in Irepodun Local Government Area, setting the stage for the festival slated for today, December 24, 2025.
The suit, filed by Chief Simeon Olayioye, Chief Gabriel Abioye, and Professor Bode Bojuwoye on behalf of the Otun Oro community, sought to stop the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Joel Olaniyi Titiloye Oyatoye, and his associates from holding the event. But in his ruling on Monday, Justice Mahmoud Abdulgafar described the application as lacking merit and adjourned the substantive case to February 2 for further proceedings.
Barrister Tosin Alawode, counsel to the defendants, welcomed the ruling, calling it a victory for peace and unity. “This judgment reinforces respect for tradition and lawful authority in Oro Kingdom,” he said.
Oba Joel Olaniyi Titiloye Oyatoye, the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, praised the decision, describing Oro Day as an intellectual property that unites sons and daughters of the kingdom worldwide. “Oro Day celebrates our shared heritage, history, and values, and it is a festival that strengthens bonds within our community,” he said.
Related News
The Chief Imam of Oro Kingdom, Dr. Sanusi Olamilekan, also commended the judgment, urging the claimants to embrace peace and uphold long-established traditions for the progress of the kingdom. He invited all sons, daughters, and guests to partake in the festivities, promising a memorable celebration.
Chief Sola Jide Titiloye, Chairman of the Oro Descendant Union, Oro Branch, described the ruling as a reaffirmation of the kingdom’s enduring traditions. He criticized attempts by a few individuals to disrupt the festival, noting that some claimants were not even indigenes of Otun Oro.
Oba Titiloye disclosed that preparations for Oro Day have been concluded, including the commissioning of a centralized palace complex with a main hall, residential facilities, and chalets. A newly constructed cultural village will also be unveiled, aimed at preserving the kingdom’s history, customs, and artistic heritage while promoting cultural education and tourism.
The Oloro urged everyone to attend the festival in large numbers to celebrate Oro Kingdom’s culture and traditions.
