The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon and Vice Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, on Sunday, called on those who took him to court to remove him to embrace the verdict of the Oyo State High Court.

The High Court sitting in Ibadan last week dismissed a case instituted to remove him as the monarch of Orile-Igbon, Surulere local government of Oyo State.

The crucial litigation against his enthronement as the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon came to an end last week with the judgment of an Oyo State High Court striking out the suit.

In his judgement, Justice K. A. Adedokun held that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the suit because the claimants lacked the locus standi to institute the case

Reacting in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, Oba Alao said the judiciary remained the hope of all citizens.

The Oyo monarch said: ”I welcome this sound judgment from the temple of justice, and I am taking this opportunity to express my profound appreciation to the judiciary for dispensing justice after a painstaking review of the positions canvassed by both parties.

“The judgment brought justice to the parties and, more importantly, to the ancient town of Orile-Igbon. Truly, the judiciary remains the hope of all citizens.

”With justice dispensed, I sincerely extend my hands of love again to all Olugbon princes and princesses who, I believe, also want the progress of Orile-Igbon. I urge them to embrace the decision of the kingmakers and the government in the interest of peace and the progress of Orile-Igbon.

“Only God enthrones, and He crowns whoever He chooses. Let us put this behind us and join hands to develop Orile-Igbon together.

“Certainly, there is no loser or winner in this case. Orile-Igbon, which is bigger than all the indigenes, is the beneficiary. While generations of indigenes come and go, Orile-Igbon remains for unborn generations who will carry on the great heritage of our ancient town.”