Ogun State -October 20, 2026
By The Merit Newspaper
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.
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The suspension was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun. The decision was reportedly approved by the State Executive Council in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, pending an investigation into the allegations.
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According to the government, the action followed complaints concerning the monarch’s conduct, particularly alleged partisan political activities said to have been carried out by him or at his direction and subsequently publicised. The government maintained that traditional rulers were expected to uphold the dignity and political neutrality of their offices.
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The state government further stated that partisan political involvement by a traditional ruler was contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute, warning that such conduct could undermine the traditional institution and threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political affiliations.
As part of the suspension conditions, Oba Akinyemi was directed to vacate the palace and remain away throughout the period. He was also prohibited from presenting himself as the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom or using the crown, beads, beaded staff, irukere and other traditional symbols associated with his office.
The monarch was further instructed to make himself available for any meeting or hearing convened by the state government as part of the investigation. The government said the suspension was intended to protect peace, order and good governance in the state while the allegations were being investigated.
Efforts by The Merit Newspaper to reach Oba Akinyemi for his reaction to the suspension and the allegations against him proved abortive as of the time of filing this report. His response was not available for inclusion in this report.
