The Oluwo of Iwo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu, has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s actions towards traditional rulers in Oyo as a disrespectful act that tarnishes the integrity of the Yoruba traditional institution. He emphasized that such behaviour would not be tolerated if directed towards emirs.
In a viral video, Obasanjo can be seen instructing Yoruba traditional rulers in Oyo State to stand up and pay their respects to him, admonishing them that wherever a governor or President is seated, traditional rulers must show deference.
However, in a statement released to the media in Osogbo by his spokesperson, Alli Ibraheem, Oluwo placed blame on the traditional rulers who complied with Obasanjo’s directive. He asserted that Obasanjo should have exhibited more respect when dealing with traditional rulers, emphasizing that monarchs are the earthly representatives of God, and such an incident would not have occurred if he had been present.
The statement conveyed Oluwo’s sentiments: “I have faith in myself and my royal position. There are certain actions my soul will not accept, even in death, let alone while I am alive and active.”
“I place responsibility on the traditional rulers who obediently followed such a dishonorable act and the disrespect shown to the ancient institution by the elderly man. Respect should be earned, not demanded.”
“Traditional rulers also extend respect to their subjects. There is a specific way in which respect is accorded to elders and individuals of high position by monarchs. Kingship is a divine institution, and as such, interacting with kings demands a high level of humility, courtesy, and respect.”
“The conduct of former Nigerian President General Obasanjo was an affront, a deliberate act of disrespect, and a violation of the revered thrones of Yorubaland.”
“An affront to one is an affront to all. Yoruba traditional rulers are not individuals anyone can command at will. My dissatisfaction lies not with him, but with those royal fathers who complied with such an embarrassing directive.”
“I am confident that such a situation would never arise in my presence, nor in the presence of a few other monarchs whom I will not name. ‘Iwo kogba igbakugba’—Iwo town never bows to ignominy.”
“The conduct exhibited by the former general is condemnable. Yoruba traditional institutions demand an apology for the open desecration and humiliation of the institution.”
“He must demonstrate his Yoruba heritage by issuing an apology. Kings are not children; we are fathers. He would never dare to act in such a manner towards northern emirs.”
“This incident should serve as a profound challenge to the Yoruba people, particularly the traditional rulers. Such incidents occur when monarchs become involved with secretive societies and become subordinate to a roadside mechanic or carpenter.”
“As responsible monarchs, there is no need to join any secret society where one might be controlled by a teacher or even a herbalist.”
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