ỌWỌ INDIGENES CURSE EX-FIRST LADY BETTY AKEREDOLU OVER COMMENT AGAINST KING

Tensions are running high in Ọwọ, Ondo State, as indigenes gathered to place traditional curses on former First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, over her recent verbal attack on the town’s monarch, the Olowo of Ọwọ, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye III.

The protest followed a widely circulated remark in which Mrs. Akeredolu allegedly referred to the monarch as a “baby king”—a statement that many residents viewed as a grave insult to their culture and traditional institution.

At the heart of the dispute is the recent demolition of a cenotaph erected in memory of the victims of the 2022 St. Francis Catholic Church massacre in Ọwọ. The monument, which had reportedly been installed near the palace, was pulled down on the directive of the Ondo State Government, following a formal letter from the Olowo. The monarch had described the monument’s location as a cultural taboo, noting that symbols of death should not be placed near the palace.

While emotions continue to run high, some voices are calling for restraint. Critics of the protest say the curses should rather be directed at the armed bandits still wreaking havoc in forested communities—not at political figures.

“Betty Akeredolu should leave Ondo politics and Ọwọ culture alone. Let her allow her late husband to rest in peace,” one resident commented.

Observers argue that while the demolition of the cenotaph is unfortunate, it could always be rebuilt at a more culturally appropriate location. The growing consensus is that mutual respect between traditional and political leaders is essential to maintaining peace in the region.

As of press time, Mrs. Akeredolu has not issued an official response to the backlash.

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