The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has cautioned members of the public against addressing the traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, in an improper or disrespectful manner.
In a statement issued on Friday, the monarch’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, stressed that the 22-year-old ruler must be formally addressed as His Royal Majesty, warning that any informal, casual, or derogatory mode of address will no longer be tolerated.
Prince Olorunfemi noted that some individuals had been referring to the monarch using casual expressions such as “bro” or “blood,” describing such acts as attempts to undermine the dignity and sanctity of the throne.
“I write on behalf of the palace to draw the attention of the general public to an issue that must be corrected immediately,” the statement read. “Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times. Any deviation from this is unacceptable.”
The palace emphasized that the monarch’s young age should not be used as an excuse for disrespect, noting that age does not diminish the authority or sacredness of the throne.
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is regarded as the youngest king in Yorubaland does not permit any form of disrespect. Addressing the king with casual or demeaning terms is highly inappropriate and will no longer be condoned. Such conduct will attract firm and decisive action,” the statement added.
Prince Olorunfemi further warned that the monarch’s calm disposition and tolerance should not be mistaken for weakness, especially by those who claim to understand Yoruba culture and tradition.
“Our customs demand respect for constituted authority. Regardless of age or status, respect for the king is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne is sacred, and honouring it is essential to preserving our cultural identity,” he said.
The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the general public to always conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the dignity of the monarchy, stressing that respect for the throne remains central to Yoruba heritage.
Oba Akinghare ascended the throne at the age of 16 while still a secondary school student, following the death of his father, the former monarch of the town. As the only son among four children, tradition required that he succeed his late father, a decision later ratified by the Ondo State Government.