Lagos Monarch Sacks Six Chiefs for Supporting Labour Party Campaign

Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, dethroned six chiefs on Monday, June 30, 2025, after they attended the Labour Party’s campaign flag-off in Apapa without his consent. The monarch described their appearance at the political event as a breach of palace protocol and an act of impersonation.

Chiefs involved in the disciplinary action include Taiwo Hassan (Bale Oke Ira), Saliu Biliamin (Bale Alafia Dodoro), Lateef Ojora (Bale Alaba Oro), Idris Ojora (Bale Abule Kere), Sule Balogun (Balogun of Abule Kere), and Hakeem Oseni (Bale Mosafejo Amukoko). Each was accused of acting beyond their authority by representing the monarch at a political gathering.

A palace meeting summoned by Oba Oyegbemi clarified that none of these chiefs had permission to attend or speak on behalf of the palace. Reports indicate they may have even impersonated the monarch to lend legitimacy to the Labour Party event.

In a statement, the monarch emphasized the importance of “order and coherence” within the royal leadership. He underscored that the chiefs’ unilateral actions undermined the authority and unity of the traditional council.

The dethronement comes amid heightened political tensions in Lagos State ahead of local government elections. By distancing his palace from partisan involvement, Oba Oyegbemi reaffirmed his neutrality and commitment to preserving the integrity of traditional leadership.

Historically, the Ojora has played a stabilizing role in Lagos politics, often endorsing development initiatives but steering clear of direct political affiliations. This decisive action signals a clear boundary between customary authority and political maneuvering.

This development raises urgent questions for other traditional institutions: What role should chiefs have in contemporary political campaigns? And how will Oba Oyegbemi’s firm stance shape political oversight and conduct among Lagos monarchs in the months ahead?