By Juliet Aliwo
The High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has granted a temporary reprieve to Tijani Ahmed-Anaje, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, by ordering a stay of execution on the ruling that dismissed him from his position. This decision was made by Justice Umar Salisu of High Court VI on February 13, 2025, following an application for a stay of execution regarding the court’s previous judgment.
The earlier ruling, delivered on February 3, 2025, resulted from a case initiated by plaintiffs Daudu Adeku-Ojiah, Hussain Yusuf, and Abdulrahaam Suberu, who contested Ahmed-Anaje’s appointment by former Governor Yahaya Bello. In that ruling, Justice Salisu had removed Ahmed-Anaje from his role as Ohinoyi, declaring that he should cease to act as the monarch.
During the recent court session, the State Attorney General, Muiz Abdullahi (SAN), representing the defendants—including the Kogi State government—requested the court to grant a stay of execution since an appeal had already been filed with the Court of Appeal in Abuja on February 4. Abdullahi emphasized the need for the court to maintain the status quo while the appeal is pending.
In opposition, Sani Abbas, representing the claimants, strongly objected to the stay application. Despite this, Justice Salisu ruled in favor of the defendants, stating that all parties must preserve their positions until the appeal is resolved. The judge noted the presence of ongoing legal matters related to the case, highlighting the importance of maintaining stability during the appeal process.
Justice Salisu’s ruling ensures that Tijani Ahmed-Anaje retains his title and responsibilities as Ohinoyi of Ebiraland while the legal proceedings unfold. The judge cited the necessity of preserving all relevant issues until a conclusive determination is made either by his court or the Court of Appeal.
This development follows the significant public and political interest surrounding the leadership of Ebiraland, and the outcome of the ongoing appeal may have lasting implications for the traditional institution in the region..
