LAGOS — Lagos Monarch Dethrones six Chiefs for attending a Labour Party campaign without official sanction. Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom issued the decree Monday, citing protocol violations ahead of local government elections. The action reinforces strict adherence to rules for traditional council members in political matters.
The six chiefs faced accusations of impersonating the Oba at the political rally in Apapa. Their unauthorized presence implied the monarch’s endorsement, challenging his authority and the kingdom’s position. This breach was a serious violation of established hierarchy.
During a palace meeting Monday, Oba Oyegbemi addressed other chiefs and elders. He stated, “They violated palace protocols by impersonating me.” This declaration underlined the severity of their transgression.
The palace statement listed the removed chiefs: Chief Taiwo Hassan (Bale Oke Ira), Chief Saliu Biliamin (Bale Alafia Dodoro), Chief Lateef Ojora (Bale Alaba Oro), Chief Idris Ojora (Bale Abule Kere), Chief Sule Balogun (Balogun of Abule Kere), and Chief Hakeem Oseni (Bale Mosafejo Amukoko). Each held a significant title within the traditional leadership structure.
Oba Oyegbemi clarified his decision. He stated, “I took this decision to maintain order and coherence within my leadership structure.” The move reinforces discipline and clarifies roles and responsibilities.
Consequences of Labour Party Campaign Attendance
The chiefs’ dethronement followed their unauthorised Labour Party campaign attendance. Their presence at the Apapa rally, without the Oba’s consent, signaled alignment with the party. This occurred shortly before local elections.
Traditional leaders in Lagos often influence local communities. Their affiliations can shape voter perceptions. The Labour Party sought broader support through its campaign strategy.
Labour Party Campaign Attendance Violates Protocols
Oba Oyegbemi’s action centers on the violation of palace protocols. Traditional leadership requires adherence to rules for external engagements, especially political ones. The chiefs’ attendance bypassed these norms.
This disregard for established structures challenged the Oba’s ultimate authority in sanctioning public political appearances. Adherence upholds the kingdom’s governance.
The monarch’s ruling reinforces the integrity and order of the Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom’s traditional council. It conveys consequences for deviating from established protocols.
The Lagos Monarch Dethrones six Chiefs to assert authority and safeguard his traditional council. This decision by the Lagos Monarch Dethrones six Chiefs sets a precedent for adherence to rules governing political engagement.
The consequences impact local election dynamics. By enforcing protocol, the Oba prevents factionalism or unofficial endorsement from the traditional stool.
By Abiodun Labi
