10th February 2025
Dotun Hassan, President of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, has condemned the actions of the Olorile of Orile Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, calling it a disgrace to the Yoruba traditional institution.
He stated that the six-month suspension given to the monarch by the Ogun State government was a step in the right direction. However, he suggested that the Ogun State Council of Obas and Chiefs should have conducted an inquiry and recommended his removal before any legal action. According to him, “By tradition, you don’t jail the crown. Even in the police force, an officer undergoes an internal trial before dismissal and prosecution. The same should apply to traditional rulers.”
Hassan emphasized that such misconduct damages the reputation of the traditional institution, urging stricter internal discipline to prevent abuses of power by some monarchs. He also called for the establishment of Yoruba customary laws to outline clear sanctions for erring kings, including suspension, banishment, or other traditional punishments.
To prevent future incidents, he proposed forming a Yoruba Council of Obas Worldwide to unify Yoruba monarchs, promote ethical conduct, and protect their authority. He also recommended proper training for kings and the creation of a Federal Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs to guide and support traditional rulers.
On the selection process of Obas, Hassan noted that favoritism and political influence have led to the emergence of unfit monarchs. He advocated for the use of Ifa divination and a transparent selection process to ensure only worthy candidates ascend the throne.
Regarding the prosecution of Oba Ogunjobi, Hassan argued that traditional rites should have been performed first, as the Oba represents the spiritual and cultural authority of his community. He warned that failure to observe these rites could have negative consequences for the community.
He urged the Council of Obas to take disciplinary action before government intervention and called on traditional rulers to rebuild public trust by upholding integrity, justice, and good leadership.
