Oba Odidiomo Afolabi, the Olu of Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, was reportedly assaulted by a community leader during the flag-off ceremony of the 27.5km Igbokoda/Okitipupa dual carriageway on Monday. The incident occurred before the arrival of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and stemmed from a dispute over seating arrangements.
According to a witness, Oba Odidiomo, as the chief host of the event, requested the community leader to vacate the front row to make room for traditional rulers. The community leader refused, leading to a confrontation that escalated into a physical altercation. During the struggle, the community leader reportedly bit the monarch’s ear, causing injuries that required hospital treatment. The monarch was rushed to the hospital with blood on his body and was unable to attend the event.
The assault has sparked outrage among residents, who protested the incident alongside irate youths and half-naked women, demanding justice for the monarch. They condemned the community leader’s actions as a “taboo” and an affront to their culture.
Attempts to reach Oba Odidiomo for comment were unsuccessful, and the police confirmed that no formal report of the assault had been made. The Police spokesman, Mr. Olusola Ayanlade, stated that the case was not reported to the authorities.
