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.
Yinka Odukoya, spokesperson for the correctional facility, confirmed the development to PUNCH Online on Wednesday.
“Yes, he is in our custody, which means he has been unable to meet the bail conditions granted by the court yesterday. However, as soon as he does, he will be released,” Odukoya stated.
The Ogun State Police Command had arraigned Ogunjobi on Tuesday following a viral video in which he was seen assaulting a 73-year-old man, Abraham Areola. The charge sheet (MH2b8c/2025) accused the monarch of conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.
Details of the Charges
According to the charge sheet, the offences contravened sections 517, 351, and 249 (d) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, 2006.
Magistrate F.A. Iroko granted Ogunjobi bail with two sureties in the sum of N5 million each, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction. However, the monarch has yet to perfect the bail conditions. The court adjourned the case to March 6 for hearing.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
The incident, captured in a two-minute viral video, showed Ogunjobi verbally and physically assaulting Areola, who was forced to kneel on the road as the monarch berated him with accusations and curses.
At one point, one of Ogunjobi’s aides struck the elderly man and ordered him to prostrate before the monarch. Ogunjobi, reportedly a retired police officer, boasted about his connections within law enforcement and threatened to have Areola jailed.
Civil Society and PCRC React
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Ogun State commended the state government for swiftly suspending Ogunjobi. In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Solomon Bankole, the group condemned the assault and called for the monarch’s full prosecution.
The State Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) also lauded the government and police for prompt action, urging the arrest of the aide who slapped Areola.
PCRC Chairman Samson Kunle Popoola assured the public of the committee’s commitment to protecting residents’ fundamental human rights and pledged impartiality in the case.
As public outrage continues, the case has become a focal point for discussions on justice and accountability for abuse of power by public figures.