Ilorin, Kwara State
The heirs of the late His Royal Highness Alhaji Zulkarnaini Gambari Mohammed, the 9th Emir of Ilorin, have instituted a legal action at the High Court of Justice, Kwara State, seeking judicial clarification and redress over an alleged unauthorized lease of one of the late Emir’s estate properties.
The case, filed under Suit No: KWS/502/2025, lists Zeinab Zulu Gambari, the widow of the late Emir, and her children — Hassiat Wuraola Gambari, Mariam Segilola Gambari, Hauwa Adegboyega Gambari, Bilkisu Tinuola Gambari, Aliyu Oladipopu Gambari, and Rakiya Ajibola Gambari — as the Claimants.
The Defendants are Ahmed Bolakale Gambari and Unknown Persons alleged to be acting in connection with a disputed lease arrangement.
Background of the Dispute
According to the filed Statement of Claim, the dispute concerns the property known as Matchco (Ile Isana), situated at Emir of Ilorin House, Murtala Mohammed Way, Ilorin, Kwara State — part of the estate of the late Emir, who passed on 23 February 1992.
Following decades of unresolved administration, the heirs obtained Letters of Administration from the Kwara State High Court on 26 October 2023, appointing four administrators to jointly manage and distribute the estate.
The Claimants allege that the 1st Defendant, one of the appointed administrators, unilaterally leased the Matchco (Ile Isana) property to a developer (the 2nd Defendant) without the consent or authorization of the other administrators or the lawful heirs.
Reliefs Sought Before the Court
The Claimants are asking the Honourable Court for the following orders:
- A declaration that the purported lease of Matchco (Ile Isana) is void, illegal, and of no legal effect;
- An order withdrawing the 1st Defendant’s authority under the existing Letter of Administration;
- A directive compelling the remaining three administrators to proceed immediately with lawful distribution of the estate among the heirs; and
- A perpetual injunction restraining the 2nd Defendant and any agents or privies from entering, developing, or otherwise interfering with the property.
The writ was issued by Bilkisu Tinuola Gambari, acting for all Claimants, from their address at No. 5 Sani Lawal Close, Off Ola Herald Road, GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State.
Supporting Affidavit
In the Written Statement on Oath, Bilkisu Tinuola Gambari affirmed that she is a lawful heir to the late Emir and deposed to the facts on behalf of all Claimants.
She reiterated that the actions of the 1st Defendant were taken without consultation and that the family only discovered the unauthorized lease when construction commenced on the property.
She emphasized that the family has repeatedly requested lawful distribution of the estate and cessation of any unlawful dealings, but those efforts have not been heeded.
Purpose and Significance
This filing represents another step in the ongoing legal process to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper administration of the late Emir’s estate.
The Claimants maintain that their goal is to protect the estate’s assets, prevent unauthorized transactions, and ensure the property is distributed in line with law and the principles of justice.
About the Late Emir
His Royal Highness Alhaji Zulkarnaini Gambari Mohammed (1914 – 1992) served as the 9th Emir of Ilorin. A respected scholar, administrator, and statesman, he led the Emirate from 1959 until his passing in 1992.
His reign was marked by progress, unity, and service to the people of Ilorin and Kwara State. His legacy of integrity and leadership continues to inspire the ongoing call for justice in the management of his estate.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The matter remains before the High Court of Kwara State, Ilorin Judicial Division, and is expected to proceed to hearing in the coming months.
This platform will continue to share verified, publicly available updates as the case progresses.
Source:
Writ of Summons, Statement of Claim, and Affidavit in Support filed in Suit No: KWS/502/2025, High Court of Justice, Kwara State (Ilorin Judicial Division)
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One Response
The recent actions of the appointed administrator, Ahmed Bolakale Gambari, have raised serious concerns among many of us who care about transparency and respect for traditional institutions. The handling of matters related to the late Emirs’ estate appears unclear and has created frustration within the community. We expect accountability, openness, and adherence to due process from anyone entrusted with such responsibilities. Our traditions and the legacies of our leaders deserve to be managed with honesty, respect, and integrity.