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Stop Calling Me ‘Bro’, ‘Blood’ – Ondo Monarch Warns

ByOlamilekan Adigun

PublishedJanuary 23, 2026

The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has warned members of the public against what it described as improper and disrespectful ways of addressing the traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II.

The monarch’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, in a statement on Friday, emphasised that the 22-year-old ruler must be formally addressed as His Royal Majesty, warning that any informal or derogatory mode of address would no longer be tolerated.

Prince Olorunfemi noted that some individuals had been referring to the monarch with casual expressions such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood,’ actions the palace said were attempts to undermine the dignity of the throne.

“I write on behalf of the palace to draw the attention of the general public to an issue that must be corrected immediately,.

“Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times. Any deviation from this is unacceptable,” the statement said.

The palace stressed that the monarch’s young age should not be used as a justification for disrespect, pointing out that age does not diminish the sacred authority of the throne.

“The fact that His Royal Majesty is regarded as the youngest king in Yorubaland does not permit any form of disrespect.

“Addressing the king with casual or demeaning terms such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood’ is highly inappropriate and will no longer be condoned. Such conduct will attract firm and decisive action,” the statement added.

Prince Olorunfemi added that the monarch’s calm nature and tolerance should not be misconstrued as weakness, particularly by those who claim to understand Yoruba culture and traditions.

“Our customs demand respect for constituted authority. Regardless of age, status, or social standing, respect for the king is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and honouring it is central to preserving our cultural identity,” he said.

The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the wider public to always conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the dignity of the monarchy, stressing that respect for the throne remains fundamental to Yoruba heritage.

Olamilekan Adigun

Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.