Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, the suspended traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, was arraigned before the Ifo Magistrate Court following charges brought by the Nigeria Police Force.
Gatekeepers News reports that he faces three counts: conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace. This action comes after his suspension by the Ogun State Government due to allegations of inappropriate conduct.
The charges stem from a viral video that surfaced, showing Ogunjobi allegedly assaulting, verbally abusing, and threatening an elderly man named Mr. Areola Abraham.
In the video, which lasts approximately two minutes, Arinola Abraham is seen kneeling while Ogunjobi verbally attacked him, making accusations of conspiracy and threatening to leverage his influence over law enforcement agencies to imprison him.
The traditional ruler, who is reported to be a retired police officer, has since been granted bail, with the court setting the next hearing date for March 6.
In response to the situation, the Ogun State Government announced a six-month suspension for Ogunjobi, with state officials describing his actions as “uncivil”.
Ganiu Hazmat, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, emphasized that the decision was made to uphold the dignity of individuals and protect the integrity of the traditional ruling institution. This decision followed an interrogation process involving both Ogunjobi and his alleged victim.
“After the investigation conducted on the matter, Oba Ogunjobi has been suspended. He has been stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile of Orile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise in the matter,” Hamzat said.
The Commissioner said the decision was reached by the Ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council.
“This was in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021,” he said.
