The Ogun State Government has suspended the traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale, for six months for his alleged uncivil conduct involving an assault on an elderly man.
The traditional ruler was captured in a viral video ordering the victim, an elderly man to kneel down. It is however not clear what the man’s offence could be.
Disclosing this in a statement on Monday, the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy, said the decision was reached after the traditional ruler and the victim were invited by the state Commissioner of Local Govt and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hazmat, for interrogation.
The Commissioner said the state government in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council acted in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021.
He said this is to tackle the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the traditional ruler as it was evident in social media and being bandied in the larger public space.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has launched a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter as it assured to adhere strictly to the rule of law and fundamental human rights principles in the instant case.
The Command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed this in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the state capital.
“The Ogun State Police Command 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,” she said.
“Both parties reported at the State Criminal Investigation Department Eleweran, and their statements were obtained.”
The Command unequivocally condemned any form of assault, harassment and violence regardless of the individuals involved.
She assured that the command will ensure that justice is served and members of the public will be abreast of relevant updates in due course.
