…Oba Ogunjobi stripped of title, Police launch investigation
The Ogun State Government has suspended Oba Abdulsemiu Adewale Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, for six months over allegations of assault and misconduct, following widespread public outrage. The suspension, announced on Monday, is effective immediately.
The decision comes after a viral video surfaced on social media showing the monarch allegedly assaulting a 73-year-old man, Elder Areola Abraham Love J.P. The video depicted the frail man being slapped, kicked, and forced to kneel by the monarch, an act that drew sharp criticism from the public and human rights groups.
According to a statement from the office of the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the government’s action was taken to “uphold the dignity of persons and protect the sanctity of traditional institutions.” Both the Oba and the victim were invited for interrogation as part of the investigation that led to the suspension.
“As part of the disciplinary measures, Oba Ogunjobi has been stripped of all paraphernalia associated with the stool of Olorile-Ifo,” the statement added, emphasizing that the suspension serves as a warning to other traditional leaders.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) had earlier condemned the monarch’s actions and issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the state government, demanding the Oba’s removal. The group also accused the monarch of a history of criminal activities, including land grabbing, unlawful abductions, and illegal sales of government land.
“It should be recalled that Oba Ogunjobi has a track record of abducting and assaulting individuals, including one Chief Taye Olabowon, a former transition chairman of Ifo Local Government,” the CDHR stated.
In response to the public outrage, the Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the assault and other allegations against the monarch. Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Eleweran to handle the case.
“The command condemns any form of assault or harassment and will ensure that justice is served. Both parties involved have provided statements, and the investigation is ongoing,” said CSP Omolola Odutola, the Police Public Relations Officer.
The CDHR has also called for a deeper probe into the monarch’s alleged involvement in the murder of Morufu Gbadamosi in January 2025, urging the Inspector General of Police to investigate the entirety of Oba Ogunjobi’s reign.
As investigations continue, residents of Orile-Ifo and human rights advocates are closely monitoring developments, calling for justice and accountability in leadership.
