Ogun State police authorities have invited a traditional ruler, Oba Semiu Olawale Ogunjobi, the Oloorile of Orile Ifo, for interrogation following a viral video showing him allegedly assaulting an elderly chief in public.
The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, involved Chief Arinola Abraham Love (JP), who was reportedly forced to kneel on the road while being slapped and verbally abused by the monarch.
The dispute is said to have originated from a kingship supremacy conflict, as Chief Love was perceived to have supported a coronet Oba named Wasiu.
A concerned citizen, SF. Ojo Emmanuel, highlighted the situation on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“I came across a disturbing video online showing Chief Arinola Abraham Love (JP) being subjected to public humiliation and physical assault.
In the video, he was seen kneeling on the road while being slapped and verbally abused by someone identified as Ọba Semiu Olawale Ogunjobi, the Oloorile of Orile Ifo. This incident reportedly stemmed from a kingship supremacy dispute.
The king allegedly took offense at Chief Arinola Abraham Love’s perceived support for a coronet Oba named Wasiu (as mentioned in the video).
In response, he confronted the elderly man in his area and treated him in a manner unbefitting of a traditional ruler.
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 Police Command has assured the public that an investigation is underway.
In an official statement, authorities emphasized:
“The Monarch has been invited to the State Police Command today for interrogation. It is important to note that no individual holds authority over the Nigeria Police Force. An investigation is currently underway, and justice will be served.”
The case has reignited discussions on the conduct of traditional rulers and the need for due process in resolving leadership disputes.
Many citizens and advocacy groups have called for swift justice and disciplinary action if the allegations are proven true.
