Ogun Government Suspends Monarch, Bans Him From Wearing Crown Over Alleged Partisan Politics

The Ogun State Government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over alleged involvement in partisan political activities.

The suspension, which took effect immediately, was approved by the State Executive Council in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, pending a detailed investigation into the allegations against the traditional ruler.

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

According to the state government, the decision followed several complaints concerning the conduct of the monarch, particularly his alleged involvement in open political activities.

The government reportedly expressed concern that some of the activities were publicly displayed or promoted by the traditional ruler himself.

The administration explained that the suspension was necessary to protect peace, order and good governance in Iselu Kingdom and the wider Ogun State while the allegations were being investigated.

Government Bars Monarch From Wearing Crown and Royal Beads

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

The government also directed him not to present himself publicly as the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom or claim recognition in that capacity while the suspension remained in force.

Furthermore, the monarch was prohibited from wearing or using any royal insignia or traditional symbols associated with the office of an Oba.

The prohibited items include a crown, whether beaded or otherwise, ileke (royal beads), a beaded staff, irukere (a traditional horsetail whisk) and other royal paraphernalia.

The restrictions mean that the traditional ruler cannot use these symbols of office during the suspension period.

The government also directed Oba Akinyemi to make himself available for any meeting or hearing convened by the state authorities as part of the investigation into the allegations against him.

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

Suspension Pending Investigation

The Ogun State Government stated that the action was taken pending an official and detailed review of the allegations against the monarch.

The suspension does not, by itself, establish that the allegations have been proven. The government is expected to examine the complaints and determine the appropriate course of action following its investigation.

The development places the traditional ruler’s public role and use of royal symbols on hold while the process continues.

The state government has maintained that traditional rulers are expected to uphold the dignity of their offices and avoid conduct that could compromise their position within their communities.

The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps regarding Oba Akinyemi’s status as the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom.

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