Ogun suspends Eselu of Iselu over alleged partisan politics
- Ogun State has suspended Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu, with immediate effect.
- The state says complaints accused him of taking part in partisan politics, which traditional rulers must avoid.
- He must leave the palace and stop using royal regalia while an investigation runs.
The Ogun State Government has suspended a traditional ruler in Yewa North Local Government Area, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom.
The state executive council approved the suspension with immediate effect, according to a letter dated 20 October 2026 and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat.
The government said it acted on several complaints about the monarch's conduct, including allegations that he took part in party politics. It said some of the complaints came from things the oba himself made public.
Ogun said traditional rulers are expected to stay above party politics under customary law and the state's own laws. It warned that such conduct can damage the dignity of the traditional institution and stir up division among subjects who support different parties.
What the suspension means
Under the terms, Oba Akinyemi must leave the palace at once and may not return while the suspension lasts. He is also barred from presenting himself as the Eselu of Iselu or claiming recognition as the oba.
The state said he must not wear or use any crown, beaded or otherwise, or other royal items such as the ileke, beaded staff and irukere. He is also required to appear promptly whenever the government calls him for meetings as part of its investigation.
The council said it relied on Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021. The suspension will remain in place until the investigation into the allegations is concluded.
The government described the step as necessary for peace, order and good governance in Iselu Kingdom and across Ogun State.
What happens next
The state has not said how long the review will take. Residents of Iselu will wait to see whether the investigation clears Oba Akinyemi or confirms the complaints against him.
The suspension is not a conviction. No court has found the oba guilty of any offence, and the allegations against him are still being examined by the state.
