Pandemonium broke out in the Ajido community in the Badagry area of Lagos State after the traditional ruler of the community, Saheed Adamson, allegedly beat up one of his high chiefs, Michael Kunnuji, during an argument.
Allegedly, Oba Adamson dealt a blow on Kunnuji, who doubled as his second-in-command when they had an altercation at the palace. Consequently, some youths threatened to destroy the king’s property over the incident.
However, the intervention of policemen from the Badagry division stopped them from carrying out their threats.
The high chief said he was assaulted by the monarch when he visited him after returning from Jerusalem.
Kunnuji explained that a crisis started between him and the monarch when he purchased a transformer for the community, a project the king did not support.
“He told me I was stupid, and I also replied that he was stupid. Before I knew it, he punched me in my face with a ring and blood started coming out. I did not retaliate; I just left his palace with my bloodied face.
“I and my lawyer, who was present at the scene, went to the Badagry Police Station to report the assault on my person. After writing a statement, the police said they could not arrest him because he was a king.
“I am filing a case of assault against him; I have employed the services of legal professionals and I will see that I pursue this case and get justice.”
Kunnuji’s counsel, Ganiyu Adeola, said he was taking steps to ensure justice was served.
He said, “We know that nobody is above the law. If an Oba has committed a criminal infraction, he must be dealt with accordingly.”
When contacted, the monarch did not confirm or deny the allegations against him.
Adamson, however, said that the high chief could go to court.
He said, “Let him go to court, what is your problem? Are you not a journalist? Why are you asking me such a question? Why can’t you advise him to go to court? Is this the work of a journalist?”
He hissed and cut off the call.
SP Peter Gbesu, the DPO of Badagry Police Station, denied the allegation that the officers could not arrest or invite the monarch to the station.
He has declined further comment thus far.
Credit: PUNCH