Ogun Monarch: The suspended traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, has been remanded at the Ilaro Correctional Centre in Ogun State after failing to meet his bail conditions.
A spokesperson for the correctional facility, Yinka Odukoya, confirmed this development on Wednesday, stating that the monarch remains in custody until he perfects his bail.
Court Charges and Bail Conditions
The Ogun State Police Command arraigned Ogunjobi on Tuesday over a viral video in which he was seen assaulting a 73-year-old man, Abraham Areola.
According to the charge sheet (MH2b8c/2025), the suspended monarch faces allegations of:
- Conspiracy
- Assault
- Conduct likely to cause a breach of peace
The court was presided over by Magistrate F. A. Iroko, granted him bail in the sum of N5 million, with two sureties residing within the court’s jurisdiction. However, he remains in custody as he has yet to fulfill these conditions.
Viral Video and Public Outrage
Ogun Monarch: A two-minute video sparked widespread condemnation, showing Ogunjobi verbally and physically assaulting Areola. The elderly man was forced to kneel on the road while Ogunjobi berated him, accused him of conspiring against him and his family, and boasted about his law enforcement connections.
At one point, one of the monarch’s aides slapped the elderly man and ordered him to prostrate before Ogunjobi.
Public Reactions
Several groups have lauded the authorities for taking swift action:
- The coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Ogun State, led by Comrade Solomon Bankole, praised the government for suspending the Ogun Monarch and called for full prosecution.
- Ogun State Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) commended both the state government and police for ensuring justice for the victim. State PCRC Chairman, Samson Kunle Popoola, also urged the police to arrest Ogunjobi’s aide who slapped Areola.
The Ogun Monarch case has been adjourned to March 6 for further hearing.
