Ogun State suspends Eselu of Iselu over alleged partisan politics

The Ogun State Government has suspended Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area, following allegations of involvement in partisan political activities. The decision was approved by the State Executive Council under Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021.

According to a letter signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, the suspension follows multiple complaints regarding the monarch's conduct. The government stated that some of the alleged political activities were publicized by the monarch himself, which is considered inconsistent with the expected neutrality of traditional rulers and could threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with differing political affiliations.

Pending the outcome of an investigation, Oba Akinyemi has been ordered to vacate his palace and is prohibited from entering it. He is also barred from presenting himself as the Eselu of Iselu or using traditional royal insignia, including crowns, beaded staffs, and other regalia associated with the office of an Oba.