- By Monsurat Aina | Premier World News
The Olu of Orile-Ilawo, Oba (Prof.) Alexander Olusegun MacGregor, has firmly dismissed recent calls for collective action against him, describing the statements as “tissues of lies” and a contemptuous campaign rooted in falsehoods and blackmail.
The monarch’s rebuttal follows a statement issued by one Oluwaseun David Ogunsanya, who reportedly made unverified claims about the Oba and called for his public rejection.
In response, Lanre Olaleye, the official publicist of the Orile-Ilawo palace, clarified that the allegations are part of an orchestrated effort to discredit the traditional ruler.
Olaleye stated that a recent court ruling referenced by Ogunsanya is currently under appeal, with a formal stay of execution granted.
The presiding judge has also recused herself from the case, signaling procedural irregularities and reinforcing the palace’s stance that the matter remains unresolved.
“This entire effort is nothing more than an extrajudicial spectacle, lacking both moral and legal standing”, Olaleye remarked.
“Mr. Ogunsanya’s appeal to the Egba Council of Chiefs is misplaced and clearly an attempt to manipulate public sentiment on a matter that is sub judice”.
He further accused Ogunsanya of waging a campaign of calumny and blackmail, while conveniently ignoring his own legal liabilities, including a multi-billion-naira defamation lawsuit, filed against him and his father by the monarch.
Addressing speculations about the Egungun Festival, which some claimed had been halted due to the controversy, Olaleye confirmed that the annual cultural celebration took place over two days with the full participation and support of the Olu of Orile-Ilawo.
He added that the palace remains unshaken by the false narratives being pushed by detractors, emphasizing that truth and legal due process will ultimately vindicate the monarch.
“The public should disregard this campaign of disinformation”, he concluded.
“The Olu remains a unifying and forward-looking traditional ruler whose legitimacy is not in question”.
