The Oyo State House of Assembly has strongly condemned the alleged derogatory remarks made by Dr. Doyin Odebowale, former Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties and Strategy to the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, against the Soun of Ogbomoso, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye.
The lawmakers decried the comments, which were reportedly made during a recent broadcast on Lagelu FM, Ibadan, describing them as factually incorrect, disrespectful, and inciting.
During a plenary session on Tuesday, February 4, the Assembly deliberated on a motion sponsored by the Leader of the House, Hon. S.A. Onaolapo, and co-sponsored by Hon. J.A. Ogundele, Hon. Mrs. O.M. Michael, and Hon. A.A. Ogundare.
The legislators reaffirmed the vital role of traditional institutions in preserving the culture, heritage, and unity of communities in Oyo State.
The Assembly pointed out that Dr. Odebowale’s comments violated the Nigeria Broadcasting Code of Ethics and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act, Cap N11, LFN 2004. They urged the state’s Executive Arm of Government to take decisive action to safeguard traditional institutions from unwarranted attacks.
Also, the lawmakers called on the Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to seek legal redress against Dr. Odebowale for making defamatory and inciting statements against the revered monarch.
The Assembly also criticized Lagelu FM and its presenter, Temitayo Oyeladun (“Aboo Oro”), for failing to uphold professional broadcasting ethics during the contentious program.
They urged the Ministry of Information and Orientation to liaise with the NBC to impose disciplinary measures against the station.
As part of the recommended corrective actions, the lawmakers demanded that Lagelu FM issue a public apology and broadcast a retraction of the alleged misleading and offensive remarks.
The motion received unanimous support from the legislators, who emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of traditional rulers in Oyo State.
The Assembly reiterated its commitment to upholding respect for the custodians of culture and ensuring that media platforms operate within ethical and legal boundaries.