A Lagos State High Court sitting in Ajah has fined the Olumegbon family N500,000 for delaying proceedings in a case concerning the traditional rulership of the Ajah community.

The suit, which involves the Olumegbon family and the Ojupon and Ogunsemo ruling houses, seeks to resolve disputes over leadership rights in the community.

Counsel for the Olumegbon family, Alaba Okukpe, revealed that disagreements over his legal fees, totalling N170 million, had become a source of contention. Okukpe stated, “I have represented them for more than 35 years, and the issue of fees has caused disagreements. I am prepared to withdraw from the case if another counsel takes over and adheres to the ethics of the profession.”

Qudus Mumumi, the family’s new counsel, assured the court that he would address the issue of legal representation with the family before the next hearing.

However, Richard Ahonaruogho (SAN), counsel for the Ojupon and Ogunsemo families, accused the Olumegbon family of using delay tactics to hinder the progress of the case.

Ahonaruogho said, “This case has lingered for too long and should have advanced beyond the trial stage. The Olumegbon family’s repeated changes of counsel have stalled proceedings. I urge the court to impose a fine of N1.5 million to deter further delays.”

In her ruling, Justice Olubukola Aigbokhaevbo imposed a fine of N500,000 on the Olumegbon family and directed that it be paid before the next adjournment to prevent additional delays. The case was adjourned to March 25 for trial.

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