The Lagos State Government has warned individuals and groups against the installation and assumption of chieftaincy titles without official approval, saying offenders will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The warning was contained in a public statement issued by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr Bolaji Kayode Robert. The state government described the rising trend of self-proclaimed traditional rulers as an “unhealthy development” that has led to tension, confusion, and avoidable crises in different parts of Lagos.
According to the statement, the illegal assumption of titles such as Seriki, Eze Ndigbo, and other similar positions without the approval of the state government is not recognised by law and will no longer be tolerated.
“The preponderance of these self-acclaimed chieftaincy titles has reached an alarming level, rendering efforts at curbing these untoward excesses largely ineffective,” the statement said.
The government explained that titles that use or suggest royal status, including appellations like “Oba,” “His Royal Majesty,” or “His Royal Highness,” are illegal if they have not been approved by the governor of Lagos State.
The statement stressed that under the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, 2015, the governor is the only authority empowered to approve and recognise chieftaincy titles in the state. This power is exercised through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.
It cited Sections 15, 16, 17, 18, and 20 of the law, which clearly outline the legal procedures for filling vacant chieftaincy positions and approving traditional titles. According to the law, no individual or group has the right to install or proclaim a traditional ruler without following due process and receiving formal government approval.
The government also drew attention to Section 21, Paragraphs 2(a-d), and Section 23, Paragraphs (a and b), of the law, which prohibit the use of royal titles and royal paraphernalia by unauthorised persons.
These prohibited items include beaded crowns, beaded shoes, royal staffs, horse whisks known as irukere, and other symbols traditionally associated with recognised monarchs and chiefs in Lagos State.
“The State Government is set to enforce the law and, henceforth, bring violators to justice,” the statement declared.
It further warned that any chieftaincy title conferred without the approval of the governor is null and void. Offenders, the government said, risk punishment of up to two years’ imprisonment, as provided by the law.
“Such actions will be viewed strongly as a deliberate infraction and affront on the traditional institution in the State,” the statement added.
The government directed individuals currently parading themselves as chiefs or traditional rulers without approval to desist immediately. It warned that failure to comply would attract legal action.
“Failure to comply with this directive may result in necessary actions, including legal proceedings in accordance with the extant laws,” the statement said.
Residents of Lagos State were also urged to report cases of illegal conferment or assumption of chieftaincy titles to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development or to security agencies for prompt action.
Commissioner Robert said the measures are necessary to protect the integrity of the traditional institution and prevent abuse of culture and tradition.
“These steps are aimed at protecting and upholding the sanctity and integrity of the traditional institution in the State and preserving our most cherished culture and tradition from disrepute,” he said.
Lagos State is home to people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, making it one of the most diverse states in Nigeria. Over the years, this diversity has led to the emergence of community leaders and cultural figures representing various ethnic groups.
However, the government has expressed concern that some individuals have taken advantage of this diversity to assume royal titles without legal backing, often leading to disputes, leadership conflicts, and tension within communities.
In the past, disagreements over who holds legitimate authority have resulted in clashes, court cases, and strained relations between traditional rulers and community members. The state government said these situations undermine peace and social order.
Traditional institutions play an important role in governance at the grassroots level in Lagos State. Recognised Obas and chiefs serve as custodians of culture and tradition and act as a link between the government and the people.
Because of this role, the government insists that the process of appointing traditional rulers must be orderly, transparent, and guided by law.
With the latest statement, however, the government appears determined to act, especially as it openly threatened arrest and prosecution of violators.
Some community leaders have welcomed the move, saying it will help reduce confusion and protect the dignity of traditional institutions. Others have called on the government to also ensure fairness and transparency in approving legitimate chieftaincy titles.
As Lagos continues to grow as Nigeria’s economic and cultural hub, the government says it is important to maintain order and respect for established institutions.
For now, the message from the state government is clear: no individual or group is allowed to install or parade a traditional ruler or chief without official approval. Those who ignore the directive risk arrest, prosecution, and possible imprisonment.
The Lagos State Government has therefore urged all residents to comply with the law and support efforts to preserve peace, order and respect for tradition across the state.