The Ogun State Police Command has questioned the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, following allegations that he physically and verbally assaulted a 73-year-old chief, Areola Abraham. The incident, which sparked public outrage, has also led to the state government suspending the monarch for six months.
A viral video that circulated online showed the monarch berating and threatening Areola while he knelt on the road. In the clip, the traditional ruler accused the elderly chief of conspiracy, cursing him and his family. At one point, a man accompanying the king slapped Areola and ordered him to prostrate before the monarch.
Reports indicate that Oba Ogunjobi, a retired police officer, also boasted about his influence over law enforcement, claiming he could have the chief jailed at will. This claim drew sharp criticism from the public, with many condemning the abuse of power.
Confirming the police action, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that the monarch was invited and interrogated over the incident. He also noted that no individual has control over the police force and assured that justice would be served.
“The Oba has been invited and interrogated today by the command. The matter is being looked into for justice to prevail. Nobody can claim to be controlling the NPF. Justice must be served by all means. Thanks,” Adejobi said in a statement on social media.
In response to the incident, the Ogun State Government took decisive action by suspending the monarch for six months. A statement issued by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Communication and Strategy, explained that the decision was made after Oba Ogunjobi and his victim appeared before the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, for interrogation.
“This became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the Kabiyesi as it was evident on social media and being bandied in the larger public space.
“After the investigation conducted on the matter, the Kabiyesi has been suspended and stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise on the allegation.
“The foregoing decision was reached by the ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council under Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021,” the statement read.
