Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The National Association of Seadogs, also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has strongly condemned the assault on a 73-year-old man, Chief Areola Abraham, allegedly carried out by the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Ogun State, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi.
A viral video circulating on social media captured Oba Ogunjobi and his associates verbally and physically attacking the septuagenarian, who was seen on his knees pleading for mercy.
Following public outrage, the Ogun State Government, through its Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, suspended the monarch for six months. He was later arraigned in court but failed to meet his bail conditions.
Reacting to the incident, the Capoon of Ash Montana Deck, Abeokuta, Mr. Peter Adekunle, expressed the association’s displeasure over the monarch’s actions, describing them as disgraceful and unworthy of a leader. He noted that a traditional ruler should embody the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos, which emphasizes respect for elders and moral integrity.
Adekunle commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his swift response in suspending the monarch, saying the decision reaffirms the government’s commitment to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.
READ ALSO: Suspended Orile Ifo Monarch Remanded Pending Bail
He further urged the state government to conduct thorough background checks on individuals seeking traditional leadership positions, lamenting how some rulers have been linked to criminal activities, including aiding kidnappers and violent attacks by armed herders.
“The National Association of Seadogs, a.k.a Pyrates Confraternity, is outraged and deeply disturbed by the horrific assault on 73-year-old Pa Abraham Areola by the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Semiu Ogunjobi. Such barbaric behavior from a supposed custodian of tradition is unacceptable,” Adekunle stated.