The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal, says he has ordered the suspension of a palace official who was filmed exchanging blows with Tijani Oniru, one of the sons of the immediate past Oniru.
In a statement on Monday, the Oniru, who was installed in June by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said although he was suspending the official, the palace officials only reacted after they were attacked by Tijani’s associates.
“On Sunday, July 5, 2020, a rather regrettable incident occurred within the Oniru Estate Neighbourhood (close to Millennium Estate gate) which culminated in an altercation between some officials of Oniru’s palace and a group led by Prince Tijani Oniru,” the statement read.
“A team of palace officials led by Prince Murisiku Ajasa were allegedly accosted by Prince Tijani Oniru and some other persons. The palace officials were on a routine inspection to supervise the work being done by an inventory and enumeration group.
“In the ensuing heated argument, it was alleged that Prince Tijani Oniru slapped the leader of the palace officials who was also alleged to have retaliated. Fortunately, the police quickly intervened to prevent further escalation.”
Oba Lawal said he had ordered an investigation into the incident, adding that he would not tolerate lawlessness in his domain.
“Notwithstanding the provocative affront to the authority of the Oniru and desecration tradition, the Oniru warned palace officials to remain emotionally stable in the discharge of their duties even in the face of provocation. In addition, he sees no reason or excuse for violence in Iruland,” the statement added.
“Consequently, kabiyesi has directed the palace administrator to immediately suspend the official involved in the incident pending full investigation. His majesty enjoins all parties to desist from all forms of violence and uphold peace, law and order.”
The children of the late Oniru of Iruland, Oba Idowu Abiodun; and his successor, Oba Lawal, have been involved in a crisis over the control of some properties in highbrow Oniru, Eti Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State.
