In a surprising turn of events, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has commanded Yoruba monarchs in Oyo to rise to their feet as a sign of respect for the “constituted authority.” This unexpected demand was made during the official commissioning of the ultra-modern Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) campus in Iseyin on Friday.
During his brief remarks at the event, Obasanjo expressed his displeasure when the monarchs remained seated while Oyo state Governor Seyi Makinde approached the podium to deliver his address. In response, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of respecting old age and positions of authority in Yoruba tradition. He acknowledged that although Governor Makinde is young, his office demands respect from the monarchs.
Obasanjo recalled his own experiences as president, stating, “When I was president, I might prostrate for a king in public but when we go private, I received reciprocating prostration from the king.” He commended Governor Makinde for his efforts in bringing education to the grassroots of the people of Oke-ogun and for facilitating further development and investment in the region. Obasanjo also praised the Iseyin campus of LAUTECH as world-class and urged the residents to take full advantage of the institution.
The event was attended by several Yoruba monarchs, including Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, and Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Oyebisi. The presence of these monarchs added significance to Obasanjo’s call for respect towards Governor Makinde and the office he holds.
