Ilaro, Ogun State- Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, the suspended traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, remains at the Ilaro Correctional Centre.
He failed to meet the bail conditions set by the court.
The authorities arraigned the monarch due to allegations of assault against a 73-year-old man, Abraham Areola.
This incident has drawn widespread public condemnation.
Yinka Odukoya, the correctional facility spokesperson, confirmed Ogunjobi will stay in custody until he fulfills his bail conditions.
He explained, “Yes, he is in our custody, indicating he has not met the bail conditions set by the court.”
Odukoya added, “However, the authorities will release him as soon as he fulfills the bail requirements.”
The Ogun State Police Command charged Ogunjobi with conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.
The charges stem from an incident on January 21, 2025, at Sojuolu Street in the Ifo Magisterial District.
According to the charge sheet (MH2b8c/2025), Ogunjobi and others allegedly conspired to assault Areola in multiple ways.
Specifically, they reportedly slapped him and forced him to kneel in public while verbally berating him during the incident.
The court, presided over by Magistrate F. A. Iroko, granted Ogunjobi bail on Tuesday with stringent conditions: two sureties in the sum of N5 million each, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.
Ogunjobi pleaded not guilty to all charges. Consequently, the court has adjourned the case to March 6 for further hearing.
The incident gained national attention after a viral video captured Areola being humiliated and assaulted in public.
This shocking footage sparked widespread outrage and discussions about public safety and the treatment of individuals in such situations.
In the footage, Ogunjobi verbally attacked Areola, accusing him of conspiring against his family, which escalated the conflict.
The suspended monarch, a retired police officer, allegedly boasted about his connections within law enforcement and threatened to have Areola jailed.
An aide of Ogunjobi was also seen striking the elderly man and ordering him to prostrate before the monarch.
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Ogun State has applauded the state government for its swift suspension of Ogunjobi.
Comrade Solomon Bankole, the coalition’s chairman, condemned the assault and called for full prosecution of all those involved.
Similarly, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) lauded the prompt actions of the government and police.
PCRC Chairman Samson Kunle Popoola emphasized the importance of protecting residents’ fundamental human rights.
He urged authorities to arrest Ogunjobi’s aide.
Furthermore, the case has sparked discussions about accountability within traditional leadership structures in Nigeria.
It highlights the abuse of power by individuals in authority.
Legal proceedings are ongoing.