The Ogun State Government has suspended Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo in Ifo Local Government Area, for six months following what it described as “uncivil conduct.”
Commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs Ganiu Hamzat announced the suspension on Monday in Abeokuta. He stated that the traditional ruler’s actions, captured in a viral video, were deemed unbefitting of his status as a king.
Mr Hamzat explained that the suspension was a joint decision by his ministry and the Egba traditional council aimed at upholding the dignity and sanctity of the traditional institution.
“The traditional ruler has been stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile of Orile-Ifo, pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise in the matter,” the commissioner said, citing Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021.
The viral video that triggered the suspension showed Oba Ogunjobi allegedly verbally abusing and assaulting an elderly man identified as Areola Abraham. The video prompted both public outrage and an investigation by the state government and police.
The Ogun State Police Command, through its spokesperson CSP Omolola Odutola, confirmed that the incident is under investigation. She noted that both parties involved had been interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Eleweran, Abeokuta.
Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter, emphasising adherence to the rule of law and fundamental human rights.
“The command unequivocally condemns any form of assault, harassment, or violence, regardless of the individuals involved,” Odutola stated, assuring the public that justice will be served.
