ABEOKUTA: The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over allegations of partisan political activities, ordering the traditional ruler to vacate his palace and stop using the crown and other symbols of his office pending an investigation.
The suspension was approved by the State Executive Council under Section 52(1) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by Kayode Akinmade, media aide to Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Akinmade disclosed that the decision was formally communicated to the monarch in a letter dated October 20, 2026, signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat.
The government said the action followed several complaints concerning the monarch’s conduct, particularly allegations that he had engaged in openly partisan political activities, some of which were reportedly publicised by the traditional ruler himself.
According to Akinmade, the state government maintained that partisan political activities by traditional rulers were contrary to customary law and prohibited by statute.
The government expressed concern that such conduct could undermine the dignity and neutrality of traditional institutions and threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political affiliations.
Akinmade said the suspension was intended to safeguard peace, order and good governance, particularly within Iselu Kingdom.
The decision places the monarch’s official duties and use of traditional symbols on hold while the state government investigates the allegations against him.
In the suspension letter, the government outlined several restrictions that Oba Akinyemi must observe throughout the suspension period.
The monarch was directed to vacate the Eselu Palace and refrain from entering or staying there until further notice.
He was also instructed not to present himself publicly or accept recognition as the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom during the period of suspension.
In addition, the government prohibited him from wearing or using the crown, whether beaded or otherwise, as well as other traditional insignia associated with his office.
These include Ileke, a beaded staff, Irukere and other paraphernalia of an Oba.
The letter further directed the monarch to appear promptly before any meeting or sitting convened by the state government to investigate the allegations.
The government said the instructions were to remain in force during the suspension period.
The suspension letter was also forwarded to the Secretary of Yewa North Local Government and the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, for necessary action.
The notifications are expected to facilitate the implementation of the government’s directives while the investigation proceeds.
However, the allegations against Oba Akinyemi remain subject to investigation, and the suspension does not, by itself, establish that he has committed an offence.
Further developments are expected as the state government examines the complaints and determines the appropriate next steps.
