Summary:
The Palace of the Arujale-Ojime has issued a strict directive prohibiting informal salutations towards the 22-year-old King. Officials warn that age does not diminish the sanctity of the throne, demanding the monarch be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty.
The sanctity of traditional institutions in Ondo State was brought to the fore this week as the palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom issued a stern warning regarding the conduct of the public toward their ruler. The palace has drawn a definitive line between the monarch’s youthful age and the ageless reverence demanded by the throne.
Enforcing Royal Etiquette
In a formal statement released on Friday, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, addressed a growing trend of familiarity that the palace deems disrespectful. The directive mandates that Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, the 22-year-old traditional ruler, must be addressed exclusively as His Royal Majesty.
The intervention comes in response to reports of individuals using casual street slang—specifically terms like “bro” and “blood”—when referencing the King. The palace described these actions as attempts to undermine the dignity of the ancient stool, warning that such informalities will no longer be tolerated.
The Throne Knows No Age
The statement clarified that while Oba Akinghare II is recognized as the youngest King in Yoruba land, his biological age does not dilute the spiritual and cultural weight of his office.
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is regarded as the youngest king in Yorubaland does not permit any form of disrespect,” Prince Olorunfemi stated. He emphasized that the King is Igbakeji awon orisa—the representative of the gods on earth—and that his calm demeanor should not be mistaken for weakness. The palace warned that further breaches of this protocol would attract “firm and decisive action.”
A Legacy of Youthful Leadership
Oba Akinghare’s journey to the throne is a unique chapter in modern Yoruba tradition. He ascended the throne at the tender age of 16 while still a secondary school student, following the passing of his father. As the only son, he was selected by the kingmakers and approved by the government to carry the mantle of his ancestors, a role that demands absolute reverence regardless of his youth.
