Palace Issues Warning And Demands That 22 Year Old Ondo Monarch Be Respected.

The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has warned the public against addressing the traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, in ways deemed improper and disrespectful.

In a statement issued on Friday, January 23, 2026 the monarch’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, emphasized that the 22-year-old ruler must be formally addressed as His Royal Majesty, warning that any informal or derogatory mode of address would no longer be tolerated.

Prince Olorunfemi noted that some individuals had been referring to the monarch with casual expressions such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood,’ actions the palace said were attempts to undermine the dignity 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 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 such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood’ is highly inappropriate and will no longer be condoned. Such conduct will attract firm and decisive action,” the statement added.

Prince Olorunfemi added that the monarch’s calm nature and tolerance should not be misconstrued as weakness, particularly by those who claim to understand Yoruba culture and traditions.

“Our customs demand respect for constituted authority. Regardless of age, status, or social standing, respect for the king is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and honouring it is central to preserving our cultural identity,” he said.
The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the wider public to always conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the dignity of the monarchy, stressing that respect for the throne remains fundamental to Yoruba heritage.

Oba Akinghare ascended the throne at the age of 16 while he was still a secondary school student, following the death of his father, who was the monarch of the town.
As the only son among four children, tradition required that he succeed his late father. In line with the customs of the ancient community, the kingmakers promptly presented him as the new ruler, a decision that was subsequently approved by the Ondo State Government.