Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has formally petitioned the State Security Service (SSS) over allegations of assault, unlawful detention, and the subsequent death of a United States–based Yoruba traditional leader, Chief Lukmon Suleiman Ojora Arounfale.
According to the petition, Chief Arounfale, who was the Baba Oba of Oyotunji Village, South Carolina, was allegedly assaulted during a visit to the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, on April 17, 2025.
The petition states that the visit, which was initially cordial, reportedly became contentious following a disagreement over coronation practices within the US-based Yoruba community. Chief Arounfale was said to have explained that coronations in their community are traditionally conducted under the authority of the Ooni of Ife.
Falana further alleges that the visitors were accused of disloyalty and subsequently subjected to physical assault. It is claimed that Chief Arounfale, described as elderly and physically frail, was beaten and pushed down a staircase during the incident.
The petition also alleges that the victims were handed over to the police in an injured state and were compelled to sign a letter of apology to the monarch as a condition for their release. Chief Arounfale reportedly died ten days later, on April 27, 2025, allegedly as a result of injuries sustained during the incident.
In the petition, Falana stated that the victims were detained despite being in severe pain, describing the action as an attempt to suppress the matter. He noted that although a police investigation had earlier been conducted, no arrests or prosecutions have followed.
Falana is therefore urging the State Security Service to conduct a fresh and comprehensive investigation into the allegations and to ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in line with the Criminal Code of Oyo State.