The Ekiti State Government has enforced suspension on a traditional chief in Imesi Ekiti, Gbonyin LGA, Chief Gabriel Bodunde, following allegations of disrespect, high-handedness, and defiance to the local monarch, Oba Olatunji Olatunde. Accusations further extended to the chief’s involvement in stirring communal discord within the town by the arbitrary and unlawful arrest of locals on baseless charges.
The government has thus cautioned Bodunde against presenting himself as the Olokun of Imesi Ekiti throughout his suspension period, warning that defiance would result in arrest and potential prosecution.
Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, made the decree on Thursday in response to a petition received from Onimesi-in-Council. Despite being summoned, Bodunde neither attended the meeting nor sent a representative, which was perceived as further insubordination.
The petition, penned by Oba Olatunde on 14th July 2023, accused Bodunde of disrespect and defiance to the Onimesi-in-Council, citing his absence from statutory meetings and counteractions to council directions.
In her address, Deputy Governor Afuye warned associates of Bodunde to reconsider their alliances or face similar disciplinary repercussions. She emphasized the importance of peace and respect for traditional rulership in the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Afuye affirmed, “Governor Oyebanji holds traditional institutions in high regard and has shown this through his policies. We will not allow such respected institutions to be disrespected.”
Oba Olatunde expressed gratitude for the swift government response, interpreting it as proof of Governor Oyebanji’s devotion to statewide unity and peace.
SOURCE: Nigerian Tribune
IMAGE: Channels TV
