Ogun suspends monarch over ‘assault’ of man in viral video

The Ogun state government has suspended Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, a traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, for six months over alleged assault of an elderly man.

In the viral video, the victim was seen kneeling and prostrating on a dirt road as a baritone voice rained curses on him.

“You’re a traitor who won’t enjoy the fruits of your labour. You’ll lose your family, and evil will befall you. I dare anyone who thinks they can defend you to come out publicly and say it to my face,” the shadowy figure bellowed in Yoruba.

“Go ahead and report me to the police if you dare. If you die, you’ll be buried, and no one will even ask about you.

“You are an ungrateful person. I’m the one who made Wasiu Baale and this is how you repay me? I’ll put you in jail, and I have the power to control the police.”

In a statement, Ganiu Hamzat, Ogun commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, said Ogunjobi’s conduct was unbecoming of a traditional ruler.

The commissioner said the ministry has summoned the monarch and victim for questioning.

He added that the decision was reached by the ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council.

“After the investigation conducted on the matter, Oba Ogunjobi has been suspended,” Hamzat said.

“He 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.

“This was in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021.”

Hamzat said the state government would not tolerate disrespect towards residents — regardless of the perpetrator’s status.

OGUN POLICE COMMENCE PROBE

In a statement, the Ogun police command said it is aware of the video.

A statement by Omolola Odutola, police spokesperson in Ogun, identified the victim as Areola Abraham.

She added that Lanre Ogunlowo, the state’s police commissioner, has ordered a probe of the incident.

“Both parties reported at the State Criminal Investigation Department Eleweran, and their statements were obtained,” Odutola said.

The command condemned any form of assault, harassment and violence, regardless of the status of the individuals involved.

Odutola added that the command would ensure that justice is served and that the public is kept abreast of developments.