By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Residents of Orile Ifo, Ogun State, were left scratching their heads on Tuesday as their suspended monarch, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, found himself in an unusual sleeping arrangement—behind the high walls of the Ilaro Correctional Centre.
The monarch, who had earlier been granted bail by an Ifo Magistrate Court, seemed to have misplaced the key to his freedom, as he was unable to meet the conditions set by the court. And so, instead of heading back to his palace, he was ushered into what could only be described as a “five-star correctional suite” in Ilaro.
In what could be considered an ironic twist, the Yoruba adage that says “Ori Ade kin sun ita”—which means “the crown never sleeps outside a palace standard abode”—was put to the ultimate test. Some mischievous observers whispered that perhaps the Ilaro facility had been temporarily elevated to “Royal Correctional Palace” for its esteemed guest.
Eyewitnesses claim that as the prison gates swung shut behind him, the royal entourage (now reduced to prison wardens) ensured that the king’s new “chamber” was ready for occupancy. While no red carpets were rolled out, a uniform swap was reportedly arranged—exchanging regal robes for something more “institutional.”
One local, Ifademilade Adetutu, chuckled as he commented: “Kabiyesi will now understand what it means to rule from the grassroots—literally!”
Meanwhile, some Orile Ifo residents have suggested that a special “Orile Ifo Royal Correctional Durbar” be held at the prison yard, just to ensure the king still gets his royal salute. But others insist that if he does not secure his bail soon, the throne might have to consider adding a “Department of Correctional Affairs” to its royal council.
For now, one thing is certain—the royal crown has found a new resting place. Whether this arrangement is temporary or a long-term “royal retreat” remains to be seen.
