A shocking video that has gone viral shows Chief Abraham Areola, a 73-year-old man, being publicly humiliated and assaulted by Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile Ifo. The incident, which reportedly occurred on January 21, 2025, has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for immediate action from the Ogun State government.
In the disturbing two-minute clip, Chief Areola is seen kneeling on the ground while the monarch hurls insults and threats at him, claiming ownership over the police force and asserting his power to imprison the elderly man. The monarch is heard saying, “You’ll die and go blind; I own the entire Nigeria Police Force. I will send you to prison,” while an aide physically assaults Chief Areola by slapping him and demanding that he prostrate before the king.
The confrontation appears to stem from a dispute regarding local chieftaincy titles, with Oba Ogunjobi allegedly angered by Chief Areola's perceived support for a rival traditional leader. Eyewitness accounts confirm that Chief Areola was unwell at the time of the incident and had approached the monarch seeking clarification about his supposed offense.
Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration has responded swiftly to the outcry. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, described the act as “inappropriate and inhumane,” emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable for any traditional leader. He assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
Emmanuel Ojo, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Abiodun, echoed these sentiments on social media, stating that there are “more dignified and lawful ways to address disputes,” and condemned the use of violence and public humiliation.
Chief Areola has called upon Nigerians for support and protection from further threats following this traumatic experience. He expressed his dismay at being subjected to such treatment without any clear understanding of his alleged wrongdoing.