LERE Olayinka, former media aide to ex-Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, has publicly criticized Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for allowing a traditional ruler to squat while speaking to him at a public event in Lagos.
A viral video circulating on social media on Tuesday captured the incident where Oba Fatai Akamo, the Olu of Itori in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, was seen squatting to address Governor Abiodun. The footage has sparked widespread reactions, with many expressing outrage over the perceived disrespect towards the monarch.
Olayinka voiced his disapproval on his social media page [ X | OlayinkaLere ] emphasizing the cultural disrespect involved. He wrote, “Kábíyèsí, Orí Adé, Ọrùn Ìlẹ̀kẹ̀, kneeling to talk to the Imperial Majesty, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State. The shame is not on this Ọba though, it is on the governor, who himself is a prince.”
The incident has generated significant debate about the respect accorded to traditional institutions and leaders. Many believe that Governor Abiodun, being a prince himself, should have upheld the cultural protocols that honour traditional rulers.
Olayinka’s criticism highlights a broader concern about the erosion of traditional respect and the treatment of monarchs in public and political settings. His statement has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting his stance and others defending the governor’s actions as unintentional.
The Ogun State government has yet to release an official statement addressing the incident or the criticism from Olayinka. However, the viral video continues to stir conversations about the relationship between political officeholders and traditional leaders, and the need to maintain respect for cultural norms.
Eighteen-Eleven Media