In a dramatic move that has stirred conversations across Lagos’ traditional and political circles, the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Oba AbdulFatai Oyegbemi, has dethroned six high-ranking chiefs over what the palace described as a breach of royal protocol and impersonation.
EpeInsights gathered that the decision, announced following a tense meeting at the palace on Monday, June 30, stems from the chiefs’ attendance at the Labour Party’s campaign flag-off in Apapa without the monarch’s approval.
Those affected 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), and Chief Sule Balogun (Balogun of Abule Kere).
According to a palace statement, Oba Oyegbemi summoned the chiefs to clarify their actions after their presence at the political rally came to light.
The monarch expressed disappointment, stating that their conduct misrepresented the authority of the palace and undermined the customs of the Ojora Kingdom.
“No chief is permitted to act on behalf of the Kabiyesi without express permission,” the statement read.
“The affected individuals not only attended a political event uninvited, but they also misrepresented their positions and, by extension, the throne.”
The dethronement underscores the monarch’s commitment to maintaining order and respect within the traditional institution.
During the gathering, Oba Oyegbemi emphasized the importance of unity and discipline in upholding the integrity of the palace, particularly in politically charged times.
Interestingly, while distancing his palace from the chiefs’ political activity, the monarch used the moment to applaud the ongoing development efforts of the current Lagos State government within Ojora land.
He expressed support for the administration’s programs, reaffirming his dedication to peace and growth in his domain.
This incident brings to the fore longstanding debates around the role of traditional leaders and their delegates in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
As the 2027 election season begins to heat up, the Ojora Kingdom’s actions may signal a renewed emphasis on protocol and the separation of traditional authority from political partisanship.
For now, the dethroned chiefs remain silent, but observers say the development could reverberate through Ijora’s community structures in the coming weeks.
