Ondo Palace Warns Against Casual Address of 22-Year-Old Monarch, Insists on Full Royal Protocol
The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom has issued a firm warning to the public over what it described as increasing incidents of disrespectful forms of address directed at the reigning monarch, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II.
In an official statement released on Friday, the palace, through the king’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, made it clear that the monarch must be addressed strictly by his full royal title, “His Royal Majesty.” The statement stressed that informal or casual terms will no longer be tolerated under any circumstance.
According to the palace, some members of the public have taken to addressing the 22-year-old monarch with slang expressions such as “bro” or “blood,” often under the guise of familiarity. The palace described such conduct as inappropriate and deeply disrespectful, noting that the age of the monarch does not diminish the dignity, authority, or sacredness of the throne he occupies.
The statement further warned that any attempt to undermine the authority of the king or trivialise the institution of the monarchy would be met with decisive measures. It emphasised that traditional rulership is rooted in centuries of cultural values and should not be treated casually in modern interactions.
The palace also issued a broader appeal, particularly to the Yoruba community, to uphold respect for culture, tradition, and constituted authority. It reminded the public that reverence for traditional institutions remains a cornerstone of Yoruba heritage and social order.
The warning underscores the palace’s resolve to protect the integrity of the throne of Okeluse Kingdom and ensure that the monarch is accorded the respect due to his office, regardless of age or personal familiarity.
