THE Ogun State government on Monday placed the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, on a six-month suspension for his uncivil conduct not befitting the status of an Oba.
The decision, according to a statement from the Special Adviser to Gov Dapo Abiodun on Communication and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, on Monday, was reached after Oba Ogunjobi and his victim, 73-year-old Areola Abraham, were invited by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, for interrogation.
Akinmade said, “In a bid to ensure the dignity of persons and for the protection of the sanctity of our revered traditional institution, the Ogun State Government led by Prince Dapo Abiodun, has placed Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo on six months suspension for his uncivil conduct not befitting the status of an Oba.
“The decision was reached after the Kabiyesi and his victim were invited by the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Local Govt and Chieftaincy Affairs for interrogation.
“This became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the Kabiyesi as it was evident in the 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 in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021.”
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command says it has taken cognizance of “a disturbing video circulating on social media, in which an elderly man, Mr. Areola Abraham was seen prostrating while being subjected to verbal abuse and assault by Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile Ifo.”
A statement released by CSP Omolola Odutola, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Command said given the gravity of the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, has ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter and further assures to adhere to the rule of law and fundamental human rights principles in the instant case.
“Both parties reported at the State Criminal Investigation Department Eleweran, and their statements were obtained
“The Ogun State Police Command unequivocally condemns any form of assault, harassment and violence regardless of the individuals involved.
“The Command will ensure that justice is served and members of the public will be abreast of relevant updates in due course.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media