The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has issued a stern warning to the general public against any form of disrespect or improper address directed at its traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II.
Oba Oloyede, who ascended the throne of his forefathers at the age of 16 while still a secondary school student, is currently 22 years old and is regarded as one of the youngest reigning monarchs in Yorubaland. Despite his young age, the palace emphasized that his status and authority must be fully respected at all times.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Prince Adefemi Michael Olorunfemi, made it clear that the king must be addressed strictly as “His Royal Majesty,” stressing that any deviation from this standard would no longer be tolerated.
According to the statement, some individuals have been addressing the monarch with casual terms such as “bro” or “blood,” actions which the palace described as disrespectful and unacceptable. Prince Olorunfemi warned that such behavior, often disguised as familiarity, undermines the sanctity of the throne and Yoruba cultural values.
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yoruba land does not give room for disrespect in any form,” the statement read. It further noted that the monarch’s calm nature and leniency should not be mistaken for weakness or permission to disregard tradition.
The palace stressed that regardless of age, social status, or position, the monarch must be accorded full respect, describing him as “Igbakeji awon orisa,” the representative of the gods on earth. It added that the throne remains sacred and deserving of honor.
Calling on residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the general public, the palace urged everyone to uphold the dignity of the throne, noting that respect for the monarch is central to the preservation of Yoruba culture, heritage, and identity.
Leave a comment