A Kogi State High Court sitting in Lokoja, on Thursday upheld the nomination, selection and appointment of HRH Ajofe Chief Jonah Idris Okai as the rightful occupant to the throne of Onu Abocho.

Delivering the judgement, Justice Folorusho Ajayi further stated that the nomination and selection of Onu Abocho by the kingmakers and subsequent approval of the appointment by Kogi State government was in order.

In a consolidated judgement of the five suits challenging the nomination of Okai, the judge said he was rightly appointed and his appointment stands.

Subsequently, the judge dismissed all the suits instituted against Onu Abocho for lacking in merit.

Justice Rotimi ruled that the winner is entitled to a cost, but being a member of the ruling house and in the spirit of oneness, the court decided not to award cost.

Responding to journalists on behalf of his client, Prof. Benjamin Ogwo appreciated the judge for the judgement, urging the parties to continue to live in peace for the progress and development of the community.

Barr S.O Ayobe on behalf JJ Usman, SAN, who represented the Attah Igala and Chairman Igala Area Traditional Council, also commended the judgement noting that it will bring to an end the legal dispute over the stool of Onu Abocho.

In his response, the Onu Abocho, Ajofe Chief Jonah Idris Okai appreciated all the ruling houses and the people of Biraidu, adding that the victory is for all sons and daughters of the area.

It would be recalled that some other suits instituted by another claimant to the stool was earlier dismissed on 18th of February, 2025, for lack of merit, by a high court.