The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has issued a stern warning to the public against what it described as disrespectful and casual forms of address directed at the monarch, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Prince Adefemi Michael Olorunfemi, who stressed that the 22-year-old traditional ruler must be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times.
According to the palace, some individuals have been referring to the monarch with informal terms such as “bro” and “blood,” a practice it described as unacceptable and a violation of the dignity of the throne.
“I write in my capacity as Chief of Staff to the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom to address an important matter that requires the attention of the general public,” the statement read.
“Kindly note that Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times. Any other form of address is unacceptable.”
The palace noted that the monarch’s youthful age should not be used as justification for disrespect, emphasising that the sanctity of the throne transcends age.
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yorubaland does not give room for disrespect in any form. Addressing our revered monarch with terms such as ‘bro,’ ‘blood,’ or any casual or demeaning expressions is highly inappropriate and will no longer be tolerated. Such actions will be met with strong and decisive measures.”
Olorunfemi further warned that the monarch’s calm disposition should not be misconstrued as weakness, particularly by those familiar with Yoruba cultural values.
“His Majesty’s leniency should not be taken as permission to do the wrong thing. Especially for those who call themselves Yoruba, we should know better. Culture, tradition, and respect for constituted authority are values we must uphold at all times.”
The palace reiterated that respect for the monarch is non-negotiable, regardless of age, status, or social standing.
“His Royal Majesty is not just our father; he is Igbakeji awon orisa — the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and respect for the throne is respect for our heritage and identity as a people.”
Residents of Okeluse Kingdom and members of the public were urged to always uphold the dignity of the throne, with the palace describing respect for the monarch as central to the preservation of Yoruba culture and tradition.
Oba Akinghare ascended the throne at the age of 16 while still a secondary school student, following the death of his father. As the only son among four children of the late monarch, tradition dictated his succession, a decision later affirmed by the Ondo State Government.
Fidelis David in Akure
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