In a dramatic royal shake-up, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi, has dethroned six high-ranking chiefs for attending a Labour Party campaign flag-off in Lagos without his consent. The event, held in the Apapa area, reportedly took place without the monarch’s knowledge, and the chiefs’ actions were described as a breach of palace protocol and a form of impersonation.
Those stripped of their titles include:
- Chief Lateef Ojora (Bale Alaba Oro)
- Chief Saliu Biliamin (Bale Alafia Dodoro)
- Chief Taiwo Hassan (Bale Oke Ira)
- Chief Idris Ojora (Bale Abule Kere)
- Chief Hakeem Oseni (Bale Mosafejo Amukoko)
- Chief Sule Balogun (Balogun of Abule Kere)
The decision followed a palace meeting on Monday, where Oba Oyegbemi expressed strong disapproval of the chiefs' conduct. In a statement obtained on Tuesday, the monarch emphasized the gravity of their actions and the importance of respecting the traditional institution’s authority.
“Following the outcome of this event, which unfolded without his prior knowledge, Kabiyesi Ojora summoned the Bales, Balogun, and the Ojora Councils to his ancient Palace for clarification,” the statement read. “In a tone marked by disappointment and authority, Kabiyesi stated that the Chiefs’ actions were in violation of their duties.”
The monarch stressed that no chief under his reign is permitted to make political appearances or represent him without his express approval. “They all serve to represent him and uphold the traditions of the land,” the statement added.
Oba Oyegbemi's move to sack the chiefs was described as a decisive effort to maintain order, discipline, and loyalty within the traditional structure. During the assembly, he also voiced his support for the current government, praising its development efforts in Ojora Land and pledging continued cooperation with the administration.
The Oba concluded by reiterating the importance of transparency and collaboration in the relationship between traditional authorities and politics, warning other chiefs to remain mindful of their roles and responsibilities in serving the kingdom.
