Olu of Owode-Egba Suspended for Abusing Naira During KWAM 1’s Celebration

The Egba Traditional Council has taken decisive action by suspending Oba Kolawole Sowemino, the Olu of Owode-Egba, following a viral video capturing him publicly abusing the Naira during the decoration of the renowned Fuji singer, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, known as KWAM 1, with knitted N1000 notes.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) had previously cautioned the monarch, citing a violation of Section 21 (3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007. This section explicitly addresses the abuse and defacing of the Naira during social occasions.

Despite an apology from Oba Sowemino, expressing that he was carried away in celebrating his wife, the Ethical Committee of the Egba Traditional Council recommended his suspension. During the February statutory meeting chaired by Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, the council adopted the committee’s recommendation.

The suspension will last for two months, during which Oba Sowemino will not receive a salary. Additionally, he is barred from attending any government or public functions. The committee, led by Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, emphasized that the monarch’s actions not only breached the CBN Act but also went against the ethics of the Yoruba traditional institution.

Oba Matemilola referred to past cases where citizens faced legal consequences for similar actions, reinforcing the severity of abusing the country’s currency. The committee thoroughly examined the viral video, noting the public condemnation that followed, which led to derisive comments on the traditional institution.

In response, Oba Sowemino acknowledged the decision of the traditional council, comparing it to a father chastising a beloved son. He clarified in a telephone interview that the initial three-month suspension was reduced to two months following his apology.