Police arraign Ogun monarch for ‘assaulting’ elderly man in viral video

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arraigned Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, a suspended traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, over the alleged assault of an elderly man.

Ogunjobi appeared in court on Tuesday following public outrage over a viral video that appeared to show him verbally and physically assaulting an elderly man.

In the viral video, the victim is seen kneeling and prostrating on a dirt road while a man off-camera hurls insults at him. The footage prompted widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

Lanre Ogunlowo, the Ogun state police commissioner, had ordered a probe of the incident, stressing that all forms of assault and harassment would not be tolerated, regardless of the status of those involved.

In response, the Ogun government suspended Ogunjobi for six months saying that his conduct was unbecoming of a traditional ruler.

A statement by Muyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, said Ogunjobi has been charged with conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

“The Kabiyesi Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, who assaulted one elderly man in a viral video, in Ifo Ogun State, has been charged to court today 4th February, 2025, on three-count charge of conspiracy, assault and conduct likely to cause breach of peace,” the statement reads.

Adejobi said the monarch was granted bail, while the case has been adjourned to March 6, 2025.