The Supreme Court of Nigeria has reaffirmed the legal victory of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Uku by dismissing yet another appeal filed by the Umu Dieyi Family, bringing a decisive end to the long-standing dispute over the Throne of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.
In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in Suit No. SC/CV/1036/2022, the apex court dismissed the application brought by Chief Francis Njokanma, Felix Izediunor, Wilson Izediunor & Others, representing the Umu Dieyi Family, against Prince Thomas Mowete & Others, who stood for the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family.
This latest attempt was a second attempt to appeal to the Supreme Court on the same issue. The court had already ruled in 2022 in favour of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, dismissing the earlier appeal by the Dieyi group. However, despite the clarity and finality of that judgment, the Umu Dieyi Family filed another appeal in August 2022, which has now also been dismissed in its entirety.
Legal experts say the repeated filings were a clear attempt to create confusion within the Ogwashi-Uku community and falsely suggest that the matter was still unresolved.
Speaking after the judgment, Prince Onyema Okonjo, on behalf of the Umu Obi Obahai Royal Family, expressed deep appreciation to the Supreme Court for upholding justice and bringing final closure to the case.
> “This judgment confirms what the law has long made clear. There is no further appeal pending. We call on the Umu Dieyi family to accept the decision of the courts and desist from actions that threaten the peace and unity of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom. We will no longer tolerate any attempts by Umu Dieyi or their sponsor at division, criminality or disobedience of court judgements. Additionally, trespassers around the Royal Palace should vacate forthwith. ” he said.
The family also extended special commendation to their lead counsel, Chief Arthur Obi Okafor, SAN, for his legal expertise and unwavering commitment throughout the litigation.
This ruling is expected to further strengthen traditional structures and promote stability in Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, where chieftaincy disputes have historically been a source of tension.
With this Supreme Court decision, legal observers affirm that the matter is conclusively settled, and any further attempts to re-litigate it may amount to abuse of court process.
