A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Femi Fani-Kayode, has voiced strong criticism against former President Olusegun Obasanjo for what he perceives as the humiliation of monarchs in Oyo State.

This disapproval arose from a viral video in which Obasanjo chastised traditional rulers for not showing proper respect by standing up for him during a public event in Iseyin, Oyo State, on Friday.

In the video, the former president can be seen asking the Obas to rise for him and then instructing them to sit down. This incident has prompted reactions from Yoruba leaders, who have characterized Obasanjo’s actions as disrespectful towards the traditional rulers.

In response to this situation, Fani-Kayode issued a statement via his official platform, expressing his deep sadness and profound dismay at Obasanjo’s conduct. The former Aviation Minister asserted that Obasanjo’s behaviour went beyond jest and amounted to an affront to all Yoruba indigenes.

Fani-Kayode’s statement emphasized the stark contrast between Obasanjo’s previous displays of respect, humility, and greatness, such as bowing, kneeling, and prostrating before monarchs even during his presidency, and his current treatment of them.

He likened Obasanjo’s actions to that of a bus driver addressing passengers or a motor park tout addressing underlings, highlighting the lack of reverence in his recent behaviour towards the traditional rulers. Fani-Kayode concluded by emphasizing the significance of this incident and how it should not be taken lightly, asserting that Obasanjo’s actions were a form of disrespect to the Yoruba people as a whole.