Ogun Suspends Traditional Ruler Over Alleged Partisan Political Activities

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

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the State Executive Council under Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, pending a detailed investigation into the allegations.

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

According to the letter, the government acted following several complaints about the monarch’s conduct, particularly allegations that he engaged in overtly partisan political activities, some of which were reportedly publicised by him.

The state government maintained that partisan political involvement by traditional rulers was contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute, warning that such conduct could undermine the dignity of the traditional institution and threaten peaceful coexistence among people with different political affiliations.

It explained that the suspension was intended to preserve peace, order and good governance in Ogun State, particularly in Iselu Kingdom, while the allegations were investigated.

As part of the conditions attached to the suspension, Oba Akinyemi was directed to vacate the palace and refrain from entering the premises throughout the period of his suspension.

He was also instructed not to present himself as, or claim recognition as, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom while the suspension remained in force.

The government further barred him from wearing or using any crown, whether beaded or otherwise, ileke, beaded staff, irukere or other traditional paraphernalia associated with the office of an Oba during the suspension.

The monarch was also directed to make himself available promptly for any meeting or proceeding convened by the state government as part of the investigation.

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’s decision remains subject to the outcome of the investigation into the allegations against the traditional ruler.