The Egba Traditional Council has suspended Oba Kolawole Sowemino, the Olu of Owode-Egba in Obafemi/Owode local government area of Ogun State. The suspension comes after a viral video showed the monarch abusing the Nigerian currency at a social function, an act that was deemed to have brought disrepute to the traditional institution and the entire Egba nation.
In a statement released after the February statutory meeting of the council on Friday, the council reiterated its commitment to upholding the cultural values and traditions of the Egba people, as well as Nigeria as a whole. The decision to suspend Oba Sowemimo reflects the council’s determination to maintain discipline and respect for the law among traditional rulers in the region, and to uphold the integrity of the traditional institution.
Furthermore, the council has called on other traditional rulers in the state to educate their subjects on the proper handling and respect for the national currency, and to desist from any action that may contravene the law.
In response to his suspension, Oba Sowemimo has accepted the decision of the council and has expressed his readiness to comply with the terms of the suspension. He has also offered a public apology for his actions, stating that he will use the period of his suspension to undergo training and reorientation on the values and traditions of the Egba people.
The suspension of Oba Sowemimo is expected to serve as a deterrent to other traditional rulers and public figures against the abuse of the national currency, sending a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. The council’s decision also aims to reinforce the importance of upholding the integrity and values of the traditional institution.
