Ogun Suspends Eselu of Iselu Over Alleged Partisan Political Activities

The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over allegations that he engaged in partisan political activities.

The suspension, which took effect immediately, was approved by the State Executive Council under Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021. The government said the measure would remain in place while the allegations are investigated.

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

According to the letter, the council acted after receiving several complaints about the monarch’s conduct. The complaints reportedly centred on his alleged participation in overtly partisan political activities, some of which were said to have been publicised by the monarch himself.

The government said partisan political involvement by a traditional ruler was contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute. It warned that such conduct could undermine the dignity and neutrality of the traditional institution, as well as threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political affiliations.

The suspension, the letter stated, was imposed in the interest of peace, order and good governance in Ogun State, particularly in Iselu Kingdom, while the allegations undergo an official and detailed review.

As part of the conditions, Oba Akinyemi has been directed to vacate the palace and not enter it for the duration of the suspension. He has also been instructed not to present himself as, or claim recognition as, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom while the measure remains in force.

The government further prohibited him from wearing or using any crown, whether beaded or otherwise, or other items associated with the office of an Oba. These include ileke, a beaded staff, irukere and related royal paraphernalia.

Oba Akinyemi has also been directed to make himself available promptly for any meeting or hearing convened by the state government as part of its investigation.

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

The government has not announced how long the suspension will last. Its continuation will depend on the investigation into the allegations.