2027: “Vacate The Palace, Don’t Wear Crown” – Ogun Suspends Traditional Ruler

The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over alleged partisan political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the State Executive Council pending a detailed investigation into the allegations against the traditional ruler.

The decision was conveyed in a letter dated October 20, 2026, signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat.

According to the letter, the council acted following several complaints concerning the monarch’s conduct, particularly his alleged involvement in overtly partisan political activities, some of which were reportedly publicised by him.

The government maintained that partisan politics was contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute, warning that such conduct could undermine the dignity of the traditional institution.

It also expressed concern that the alleged activities could threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political affiliations.

The suspension was effected pursuant to Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021.

As part of the conditions, the government directed Akinyemi to vacate the palace and refrain from entering it throughout the suspension period.

The letter further instructed him not to present himself as, or claim recognition as, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom while the suspension remained in force.

The monarch was also prohibited from wearing or using any crown, whether beaded or otherwise, as well as ileke, beaded staff, irukere and other paraphernalia associated with the office of an Oba.

The government said the measures were necessary in the interest of peace, order and good governance in the state, particularly in Iselu Kingdom, while the allegations were subjected to official review.

The letter also directed the suspended monarch to make himself available promptly for any meeting or sitting convened by the state government to investigate the allegations.

Copies of the letter were forwarded to the Secretary of Yewa North Local Government and the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, for their information and necessary action.

The government did not disclose the specific political activities allegedly involving the monarch or indicate when the investigation would be concluded.