Ogun govt suspends traditional ruler

The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over alleged partisan political activities.

The suspension, approved by the State Executive Council, was made pursuant to Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, pending an investigation.

NAN reports that the decision was conveyed in a letter dated 20 October, signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, and made available to journalists in Abeokuta.

According to the letter, the council acted following several complaints about the traditional ruler’s conduct, particularly his alleged involvement in overtly partisan political activities.

It stated that some of the alleged activities were publicised by the Eselu, adding that partisan politics was contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute.

The letter warned that such conduct could undermine the dignity of the traditional institution and threaten peaceful coexistence among subjects with different political affiliations.

It added that the suspension was necessary to maintain peace, order and good governance in Iselu Kingdom and Ogun State while the allegations were investigated.

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

The letter further prohibited him from wearing or using any crown, beaded staff or other paraphernalia associated with the office of an Oba.

It also directed the traditional ruler to make himself available for any meeting or sitting convened by the state government to investigate the allegations against him.

“Copies of the letter has been sent to the Secretary of Yewa North Local Government and the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, for information and necessary action,” the statement read.