The Ogun State Government has suspended the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, over alleged involvement in partisan politics.
The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the State Executive Council in line with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs Law, 2021, pending an investigation.
The decision was conveyed in a letter dated October 20, 2026, and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat.
According to the government, the action followed multiple complaints against the monarch over his alleged open participation in partisan political activities, some of which he reportedly publicised himself.
The government said such conduct by traditional rulers violated customary law and was prohibited by statute. It added that the alleged actions could undermine the dignity of the traditional institution and threaten peaceful coexistence among residents with different political leanings.
It said the suspension was necessary to maintain peace, order and good governance in the state, particularly in Iselu Kingdom, while the allegations were investigated.
As part of the suspension terms, Oba Akinyemi was ordered to vacate the palace and stay away from it throughout the suspension period.
He was also barred from parading himself as the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom and from wearing or using any paraphernalia of office, including a beaded crown, ileke, staff or irukere.
The monarch was further directed to make himself available whenever invited by the government in connection with the investigation.
Copies of the suspension letter were sent to the Secretary of Yewa North Local Government and the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, for necessary action.
The development is believed to be connected to reservations reportedly expressed by the monarch over the emergence of Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
Adeola emerged as the party's candidate following its primary, in which another Yewa aspirant, Abayomi Hunye, allegedly scored zero votes.