In a decisive move to uphold the dignity of individuals and preserve the sanctity of the revered traditional institution, the Ogun State Government, under the leadership of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, has placed Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, on a six-month suspension due to conduct deemed unbecoming of a monarch.
The monarch, in a viral video on social media, was heard insulting and hurling abuses at 73-year-old Chief Abraham Areola, accusing him of betraying his rulership.
The monarch also allowed the palace workers to beat the victim and forced him to prostrated on a dusting floor.
The state government reached this decision after summoning the traditional ruler and his alleged victim for interrogation at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The interrogation, led by the Honourable Commissioner of the ministry, was necessitated by the public misconduct and reckless utterances of the monarch, which had gained widespread attention on social media and in the larger public space.
Following a thorough investigation into the matter, the Ogun State Government deemed it appropriate to suspend Oba Ogunjobi and stripped him of the paraphernalia associated with the esteemed stool of Olorile-Ifo.
The suspension would remain in effect pending the final determination of his culpability or otherwise regarding the allegations leveled against him.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the traditional institution and ensuring that occupants of royal thrones uphold the highest standards of decorum and responsibility in their conduct.
The decision to suspend the Olorile of Orile-Ifo underscores the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on any action that could bring disrepute to the esteemed traditional heritage of Ogun State.
As the investigation continues, the government has urged all stakeholders and the general public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course. The outcome of the ongoing inquiry will determine the next course of action regarding Oba Ogunjobi’s status and the future of the Orile-Ifo traditional stool.
