A Controversial Incident in Yoruba Monarchy
The recent misconduct of the Olorile of Orile Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, has sparked widespread debate.
In an interview, the President of Yoruba Council Worldwide, Dotun Hassan, shared his thoughts on the situation and its implications for the traditional institution.
According to Hassan, the publicly circulated video showing the monarch’s errand boys physically assaulting an elderly man is deeply troubling.
He strongly condemned the act, calling it a disgrace to the Yoruba Obaship institution and a violation of the Omoluabi ethos that Yoruba monarchs are expected to uphold.
Was the Six-Month Suspension Enough?
The Ogun State Government’s decision to suspend the monarch for six months has been viewed as a step towards justice.
However, Hassan insists that a Council of Obas and Chiefs should have conducted an internal inquiry before resorting to legal prosecution. He argues that this process would have upheld the dignity of the institution while ensuring fairness.
“In the Nigeria Police Force, an officer facing misconduct charges undergoes an orderly room trial before dismissal,” he explained. “Similarly, a monarch should face internal disciplinary measures before being prosecuted in court.”
Impact on Traditional Institutions
This incident has once again raised concerns about the integrity of traditional rulers in Nigeria.
Hassan highlighted cases where some monarchs abuse their power, grabbing land and using thugs to intimidate people.
He believes stronger laws and internal disciplinary actions within traditional councils are necessary to curb such behavior.
He proposed the establishment of “Iwe Ofin Yoruba”—a legal framework that would outline clear sanctions for erring kings, including suspension, banishment, or other traditional penalties in accordance with Yoruba customs.
Restoring the Dignity of Yoruba Monarchy
Hassan emphasized the sacred nature of Yoruba kingship, stating that rulers must be held to higher moral and ethical standards.
He also proposed the formation of the Yoruba Council of Obas Worldwide, which would unite all Yoruba monarchs to strengthen the institution and prevent similar occurrences.
“The role of an Oba is sacred. It must be protected from political manipulation and personal vendettas,” he stated. “Without strong traditional leadership, the institution will continue to face public ridicule.”
The Government’s Role in Preventing Future Incidents
To prevent similar incidents, Hassan urged the government to:
- Provide training and orientation for traditional rulers.
- Recognize traditional institutions as the fourth tier of government.
- Establish a Federal Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs.
He also addressed concerns about the selection process of Obas, noting that political interference and favoritism have led to unfit candidates ascending the throne.
He called for a return to traditional Ifa divination in selecting monarchs.
Legal Prosecution vs. Traditional Rites
While he supports legal action, Hassan believes that certain traditional rites should have been performed before the Oba was taken to court.
He warned that failure to do so could have spiritual consequences for the community.
“In ancient times, an Oba found guilty of sacrilege would have been compelled to take his own life, following traditional rituals,” he explained.
“Although modern laws have replaced such practices, the sanctity of the throne must still be respected.”
He also noted that prosecuting a sitting Oba without first removing him from the throne symbolically means imprisoning the entire community.
This, he believes, is why the Council of Obas should have intervened before the legal system stepped in.
Rebuilding Public Trust in Traditional Leadership
To restore credibility, Hassan urged traditional rulers to:
- Uphold Omoluabi values (honesty, integrity, and fairness).
- Maintain decorum and respect in public engagements.
- Ensure justice and fairness in their communities.
He concluded by calling on the Yoruba people to protect their cultural heritage, stressing that the dignity of the Obaship institution must be preserved for future generations.
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