A Kogi State High Court sitting in Lokoja has upheld the nomination and appointment of HRH Ajofe Chief Jonah Idris Okai as Onu Abocho.

Justice Folorusho Ajayi of High Court No. 7, in his judgment, stated that the nomination and selection of Onu Abocho by the kingmakers and subsequent appointment by the Kogi State government were in order.

In a consolidated judgment of the five suits challenging the nomination of His Royal Highness, Jonah Idris Okai, the judge ruled that he was rightly appointed and that his appointment stands.
The judge subsequently dismissed all the suits instituted against Jonah Idris Okai for lacking 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, he was restrained from awarding costs.

Prof. Benjamin Ogwo, responding to the judgment on behalf of his client, Onu Abocho, appreciated the judge for the erudite judgment and urged the parties to continue to live in peace for the progress and development of the community.

Barr. S.O. Ayobe, on behalf of J.J. Usman SAN, who represented the Attah Igala and Chairman of the Igala Area Traditional Council, commended the judgment for its excellence and the resolution it brings to the legal dispute over the Onu Abocho stool.

In his response, the Onu Abocho, Chief Jonah Idris Okai, appreciated all the ruling houses and the good people of Biraidu, saying, “The victory is for all sons and daughters of Biraidu-Abocho, and I call for the support of everyone to move the community forward.”

It is recalled that another suit instituted by another claimant in the Anyigba High Court was also dismissed on the 18th of February, 2025, for lack of merit.

The suit involved Sehu Amade before Her Lordship, Hon. Justice Awa Yusuf.