By Fawaz Adebisi
In a shocking incident, the sanctity of the Olu of Ogunmakin’s palace in Obafemi-Owode, Ogun state, was violated as criminals targeted the late monarch’s cherished symbols of authority.
The unfortunate event transpired on Thursday, October 12, just two months after the passing of Oba James Sodiya.
Omolola Odutola, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the region, confirmed this audacious breach, labeling it an abomination.
Although the police have managed to recover the royal crown, the staff of office remains missing.
“On the 12th of October 2023, an intelligence report reached us regarding the palace of the late Ogunmakin king, his Royal Majesty,” disclosed Odutola.
“Allegedly, Amusa Kazeem, Oke Oladipupo, and Johnson Oluwole conspired to steal the royal crown and the staff of office, a mere two months after the monarch’s demise.”
The perpetrators are believed to have surreptitiously entered the palace premises around 2000 hours, where the late king’s sacred regalia was held.
Seizing the opportunity, they pilfered the key from the custodian and made off with both the royal crown and the staff of office, an act considered sacrilegious.
Swiftly responding to the distress call, the police acted decisively and successfully retrieved the royal crown from the possession of one Kazeem Amusan.
However, the vital staff of office remains elusive, prompting ongoing intensive efforts to secure its recovery.
Odutola revealed that the suspects are now in custody and are undergoing interrogation.
The Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, has made a public appeal for any information that could lead to the safe return of the staff of office, emphasizing the significance of this artifact in preserving the cultural heritage of Ogunmakin.
