The Ogun State Government has pledged to investigate a viral video showing the Oloorile of Orile Ifo in Ifo Local Government Area, Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, allegedly subjecting Chief Arinola Abraham to dehumanizing treatment. The two-minute clip, which has sparked widespread outrage, depicts Arinola kneeling on the road while Ogunjobi, reportedly a retired police officer, curses him and his family, accusing him of conspiracy.
In the video, the monarch is heard boasting about his influence over law enforcement agencies, threatening to jail the chief. At one point, a man accompanying the traditional ruler slaps Arinola and orders him to prostrate before the king. Ogunjobi, speaking in Yoruba, declares, “You are a conspirator, it will never be well with you… your wife and children… whoever thinks he is courageous enough should come out to face me… even if you die, we shall bury you and nothing will happen….”
Reacting to the incident, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, described the act as “inappropriate and inhumane.” In a statement, Akinmade said, “This will be investigated, and if proven to be true, necessary action will be taken.”
Similarly, the governor’s Special Assistant on New Media, Emmanuel Ojo, condemned the incident in a Facebook post, emphasizing that such matters should be handled in a more civilized manner. Ojo wrote, “I came across a disturbing video online showing Chief Arinola Abraham Love (JP) being subjected to public humiliation and physical assault. This incident reportedly stemmed from a kingship supremacy dispute. The king allegedly took offence at Chief Arinola Abraham Love’s perceived support for a coronet Oba named Wasiu. In response, he confronted the elderly man in his area and treated him in a manner unbefitting of a traditional ruler.”
Ojo further stated, “Such an act is highly condemnable and completely unjustifiable, regardless of the underlying issues. There are more dignified and lawful ways to address disputes, especially among traditional leaders. Resorting to force, assault, and public humiliation is unacceptable and must be strongly denounced.”
The Ogun State Government has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted, and appropriate measures will be taken if the allegations are confirmed.
