Lagos Govt bans installation Of Eze Ndigbo, Seriki, vows arrest, prosecution

The Lagos State Government has warned individuals against illegally assuming chieftaincy and royal titles without official approval, stating that offenders risk arrest and prosecution under the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, 2015.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, the government described the rising trend of self-acclaimed traditional rulers as “an unhealthy development” that has generated tension, confusion and avoidable crises across communities.

According to the statement, the unauthorised use of titles and appellations such as “Oba,” “His Royal Majesty,” and “His Royal Highness” is illegal and unacceptable under the law.

“The preponderance of these self-acclaimed chieftaincy titles has reached an alarming level, rendering efforts at curbing these untoward excesses largely ineffective,” the statement read.

The government stressed that only the Governor of Lagos State, acting through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, has the constitutional authority to approve chieftaincy titles in the state. It noted that Sections 15, 16, 17, 18 and 20 of the Obas and Chiefs Law clearly spell out the procedures for filling vacant stools and recognising traditional rulers.

The statement further referenced Section 21 (2a–d) and Section 23 (a & b) of the law, which prohibit the unauthorised use of royal paraphernalia such as beaded crowns, beaded shoes, staffs of office and horse whisks (irukere) by persons not recognised by the state government.

“The Lagos State Government is set to enforce the law and will henceforth bring violators to justice,” it warned.

The government declared that any chieftaincy title conferred without the Governor’s approval is null and void, adding that offenders risk up to two years’ imprisonment as prescribed by law.

Such acts, the statement said, would be treated as a deliberate affront to the traditional institution in the state.

Individuals currently parading unauthorised titles were advised to desist immediately or face legal consequences. Residents were also encouraged to report cases of illegal chieftaincy title conferment to the ministry or relevant security agencies.

Commissioner Robert said the enforcement measures were necessary to protect the sanctity and integrity of traditional institutions in Lagos State and preserve the state’s cultural heritage from abuse.

Very Nigerian

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