Lauretta Fagbohun
Abeokuta.
The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, with immediate effect over alleged involvement in partisan political activities.
The suspension 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 against the monarch.
The decision was communicated 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 on several complaints concerning the monarch’s conduct, particularly his alleged participation 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 traditional institutions and threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political affiliations.
It explained that the suspension was necessary to safeguard peace, order and good governance in Ogun State, particularly in Iselu Kingdom, while the allegations were subjected to an official review.
As part of the suspension measures, Oba Akinyemi was directed to vacate the palace and refrain from entering it throughout the period of his suspension.
The monarch was also instructed not to present himself as, or claim recognition as, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom until further notice.
Furthermore, the government prohibited him from wearing or using any crown, whether beaded or otherwise, ileke, beaded staff, irukere or other paraphernalia associated with the office of an Oba during the suspension.
The letter also directed the monarch to make himself available promptly for any meeting or sitting convened by the state government in connection with 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.
