The Ogun State chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for the removal of the Oloorile of Orile Ifo, Oba Olawale Ogunjobi, following allegations that he assaulted a 73-year-old chief, Arinola Abraham.
In a statement released on Monday, the Chairman of NANS Ogun Joint Campus Council, Abiola Francis, condemned the alleged attack, calling it a disgraceful act that undermines the dignity of the elderly victim.
Francis noted that the video circulating online, which allegedly captures the incident, is disturbing and goes against the cultural values of the Yoruba people. He stated that traditional rulers are meant to uphold peace and justice, not engage in acts of tyranny.
“In the video, the over 70-year-old Arinola was forced to kneel on the road, verbally assaulted, physically attacked and rained curses on him,” Francis said.
He further noted that such an incident, especially under the supervision of a monarch, is unlawful and damages the moral standing expected of Yoruba traditional leadership.
Francis also raised concerns over claims that the monarch boasted about having undue influence over law enforcement. He urged the police to thoroughly investigate the allegations and ensure that justice is served.
The student leader called on the Egba Traditional Council to take firm action by revoking the monarch’s position in the council, stating that a ruler who disrespects the throne he occupies has no moral justification to continue leading his people.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately arrest and prosecute Oba Semiu Olawale Ogunjobi and all those involved in this dehumanizing act. No one, regardless of status, should be above the law.
“We also implore the Ẹ̀gbá Traditional Council to take decisive action by stripping Oba Ogunjobi of his position/membership in the revered Egba Traditional Council.
“A traditional ruler who openly disgraces the stool he occupies has no moral justification to continue as a leader of the people. To this end, we request his sack by the Ogun state government to nip tyranny in the bud in our state,” Francis stated.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Government has promised to look into the matter. The Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kayode Akinmade, described the alleged act as inappropriate and inhumane. He assured the public that necessary steps would be taken if the allegations were confirmed.
