Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State and the youngest monarch in Yoruba land, has warned members of the public to stop addressing him with casual terms such as “bro” or other informal expressions.
The warning was issued in a statement released on his behalf by his Chief of Staff, Amb. Prince Adefemi Michael Olorunfemi, and shared on social media.
According to the statement, the monarch is to be addressed strictly as “His Royal Majesty” at all times, adding that any other form of address is considered unacceptable.
“The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yoruba land does not give room for disrespect in any form,” the statement read. “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.”
The palace further warned that continued disregard for the directive would attract “strong and decisive measures.”
Oba Akinghare II ascended the throne of Okeluse Kingdom in 2019 following the death of his father, becoming the youngest traditional ruler in the South-West.
In the statement, the palace argued that the monarch’s age should not be mistaken for weakness or informality.
“His Majesty’s leniency and calm disposition should not be mistaken for weakness, nor should it be taken as permission to do the wrong thing,” the statement said. “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 statement also emphasised the spiritual and cultural significance of the throne, describing the monarch as more than a symbolic leader.
“His Royal Majesty is not just our father; he is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth,” it said. “The throne he occupies is sacred, and respect for the throne is respect for our heritage and identity as a people.”
The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and members of the public outside the community to conduct themselves in a manner that preserves the dignity of the palace and the person of the monarch.
“Regardless of your status, age or position in society, the king must be respected. This is non-negotiable,” the statement added.
The statement was accompanied by a caption from the palace reiterating that “respect for the throne is non-negotiable.”
