The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Ondo community crackdown

    Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Ondo community crackdown

    Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have taken custody of four suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate apprehended by residents of Ilu-Abo Community in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

    The suspects – Abenaguna Muhammad, Lanre, also known as ‘Lanre Tomato’, Ojo, and Pius – were alleged to have been terrorising residents of the community before their arrest.

    According to the police, vigilant members of the community initially apprehended Muhammad and reportedly found criminal charms in his possession before handing him over to security operatives.

    Confirming the development in a statement on Thursday in Akure, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said the arrest followed proactive and credible intelligence.

    He explained that during interrogation, Muhammad allegedly confessed to being a member of a kidnapping syndicate operating along the Ala/Ilu-Abo axis and linked to recent attacks and abductions in the area.

    Abayomi added that the suspect subsequently assisted investigators, leading to the arrest of three other members of the gang.

    The police spokesman noted that the incident prompted an immediate operational response, including reinforced tactical deployments, enhanced intelligence gathering, and on-the-spot assessment by the Commissioner of Police.

    Read Also: Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    He said the suspects are currently in police custody while investigations continue to recover exhibits, uncover additional criminal links, and ensure their prosecution.

    “This arrest followed intensive intelligence-driven operations launched by the Command after the violent incident of 25th January, 2026, during which armed assailants attacked residents at Liberty Avenue, Ilu-Abo, shot a victim, abducted another, and caused injuries to two.

    “The incident prompted an immediate operational response, including reinforced tactical deployments, enhanced intelligence gathering, and on-the-spot assessment by the Commissioner of Police.

    “These suspects are currently in Police custody, while the investigation is ongoing to recover exhibits, unravel further criminal links, and ensure diligent prosecution in the court of competent jurisdiction,” Abayomi said.

    Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the Ilu-Abo community for its vigilance and cooperation with security agencies, describing the action as a practical example of effective community partnership in crime prevention.

    Lawal also praised the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for reforms aimed at strengthening intelligence-sharing and operational efficiency nationwide.

    He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to community policing and urged residents to continue supporting security efforts through timely information sharing and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

    The police chief further stressed that inter-agency cooperation remains critical in tackling kidnapping and other organised crimes across the state.

    The latest arrest came a week after angry residents of Ilu Abo community protested over the incessant cases of killings and abduction by suspected gunmen.

    The residents, who blocked the major Akure/Owo/Benin road to draw attention to their plights, said that they had been traumatized by the criminal activities of armed men terrorising the community with little help from the security agencies.

    They explained that they have been thrown into deep fear, chaos, and uncertainty following a violent security incident that continued to occur in the community.

    A week before the protest, the gunmen had abducted no fewer than nine residents, including an expectant woman in the Eleyewo community, also in Akure North LGA.

    The development forced the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, to voice its serious concerns over the incessant killings and abductions in the community, describing it as unacceptable

    It called on governments, security agencies, and community leaders to rise to the challenges and find lasting solutions to the menace.

    The group also sympathized with Oluabo of Ilu Abo, HRM, Oba Olu Falae, the people of Ilu-Abo, and the Ondo state government on the violent kidnapping cases while expressing concerns over acts of terrorism occurring in various parts of Yorubaland.

  • Ondo@50: Johnvents targets global markets with local crop processing

    Ondo@50: Johnvents targets global markets with local crop processing

    As Ondo State celebrates its Golden Jubilee, agribusiness firm Johnvents Group has pledged to intensify investment in agro-processing and local manufacturing, with a focus on converting agricultural produce grown in the state into finished products that meet international standards.

    The company said expanding value addition within the state would not only reduce the export of raw commodities but also unlock jobs, boost incomes, and deepen industrialisation.

    Ondo remains one of Nigeria’s leading cocoa-producing states, with thousands of smallholder farmers depending on the crop for their livelihoods.

    Speaking during activities marking the state’s 50th anniversary, Founder and Group Managing Director of Johnvents Group, Mr John Alamu, said the firm’s strategy is built around processing agricultural commodities close to their source to retain economic value locally.

    According to him, the company operates 10 processing factories across Ondo, creating an integrated value chain that spans sourcing from farmers, aggregation, local processing, and the production of finished goods for both domestic consumption and export.

    He explained that linking agriculture with manufacturing has strengthened rural economies and positioned the company among the largest private-sector employers in the state.

    Read Also: Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    “Our goal is simple- to stop exporting value and start exporting finished products. By processing cocoa and other crops here at home, we create jobs, build skills, and develop products that can compete in international markets,” Mr Alamu said.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, he stressed the importance of human capital development, noting that sustainable industrial growth depends on farmers, technicians, engineers, and young professionals working within a coordinated ecosystem.

    “With the right policies, infrastructure, and support for local industries, Ondo can deepen value addition and strengthen its competitiveness in regional and global trade,” he added.

    Alamu disclosed that Johnvents’ operations extend beyond cocoa to cashew, sesame, legumes, almonds, pistachios, rice, edible oil, animal feed, fast-moving consumer goods, and logistics, reflecting a broader push to diversify the state’s agro-industrial base.

    The firm, which operates across several African countries and international markets, has also positioned Ondo as a strategic hub within its global supply chain.

    He congratulated the government and people of the state on the Golden Jubilee and commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration for sustaining policies aimed at economic and industrial growth.

    “Ondo at 50 presents an opportunity to reflect on how far the state has come and to build a stronger industrial future anchored on value addition,” he said.

  • Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called on the people of Ondo State to remain united and patriotic, while urging sustained support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consolidate the gains of his administration ahead of 2027.

    Tunji-Ojo spoke at the Akure Airport shortly after arriving in the state for the grand finale of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.

    He said the golden jubilee celebration was not only a time to celebrate but also an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey, the sacrifices of its founding leaders, and the need for citizens to support purposeful leadership at both state and federal levels.

    The minister, who arrived in the state alongside the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, and Hon. Ife Ehindero, representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said President Tinubu’s administration was laying a solid foundation for national renewal through bold economic reforms, improved security architecture, institutional strengthening, and economic restructuring.

    According to him, continuity and collective support are essential for the reforms to translate into long-term national prosperity.

    Read Also: Ondo @50: Ogunjobi hails Aiyedatiwa, lauds founding fathers

    “Democracy delivers best when the people remain patient, supportive, and united behind visionary leadership,” he said.

    Tunji-Ojo added that 2027 should be seen as a period of consolidation rather than a distraction to secure a better future for the next generation.

    The minister also lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the people of Ondo State on the historic milestone, praising their resilience, unity, and commitment to democratic ideals over the past five decades.

    He described Ondo as a major contributor to national development.

    Also present were Hon. Otito Atikase of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Dr. Ayodeji Ologun, AMG Director of Communications; Corporal Nana Opri, AMG Secretary; Senator Yele Omogunwa, Chairman, Leaders Council.

    Others are: Dr. Lawrence Ibukun, Deputy Chairman (Central); Barrister Pelemo Ade-Samuel, Legal Adviser; Mrs. Yetunde Adeyanju, State Woman Coordinator, and other political leaders.

  • Olubadan seeks constitutional role for traditional rulers, appreciates Lagos’ support during coronation

    Olubadan seeks constitutional role for traditional rulers, appreciates Lagos’ support during coronation

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has renewed calls for constitutional roles for traditional rulers in the country, saying such recognition would strengthen governance and foster closer collaboration between monarchs and government authorities.

    Oba Ladoja made the call during a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at Lagos House, Marina.

    The monarch said that there was no dispute between the traditional institution and the Oyo State Government, but stressed that assigning constitutional responsibilities to traditional rulers would enhance their contributions to governance and community development.

    He said he was in Lagos to appreciate the governor and key stakeholders in the state for their support during his coronation, describing Lagos as a place deeply connected to his personal and traditional heritage.

    Oba Ladoja recalled how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honoured his invitation to attend his coronation ceremony, describing the gesture as a demonstration of unity among Yoruba leaders.

    “I called Mr. President and informed him that I was fixing my coronation for September 26 and asked if he would attend. He said he would come, and indeed, he came. All members of the Governance Advisory Council were also present, which showed they recognised me as a Lagosian,” he said.

    The Olubadan noted that his ties with Lagos extend beyond traditional affiliations, revealing that his late wife was from Lagos and most of his children were born and raised in the state.

    He also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the state’s infrastructural development, describing Lagos as a model for progress and urban growth.

    Responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Ibadan as an epitome and rallying point of the Yoruba race, while thanking the Olubadan for the visit and his leadership role in promoting peace and unity in Oyo State and beyond.

    Read Also: Ibadan will collaborate CRIN to establish cocoa plantation, says Olubadan

    Sanwo-Olu prayed for a peaceful and impactful reign for the monarch, expressing confidence that his leadership would bring development and transformation to Ibadanland and Nigeria.

    “Our prayer is that your reign will not only be long but will also bring transformational development to Ibadanland and Nigeria as a whole. God will grant you strength, wisdom, and good health to rule well,” the governor said.

    He reaffirmed the historical and cultural ties between Lagos and Ibadan, assuring the monarch of Lagos State’s continued support and collaboration.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we thank you for coming to acknowledge and appreciate us. Lagos will continue to stand with you and your kingdom,” he said.

  • Ondo at 50: Adekanmi calls for reflection, renewed commitment to state’s future

    Ondo at 50: Adekanmi calls for reflection, renewed commitment to state’s future

    A philanthropist and grassroots youth development advocate, Prince Kenny Adekanmi, popularly known as Kenny Kunma, has said the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State should serve as a moment of reflection as well as an opportunity to reassess the state’s future.

    Adekanmi noted that Ondo State has made significant contributions to nation-building and Nigeria’s collective heritage through its political leadership, financial input and human capital.

    In a congratulatory message to the people of the state, he stressed the need for residents, regardless of status, to pursue the growth and development of Ondo State with renewed vigour and a more pragmatic approach, in order to bequeath a legacy that future generations would be proud of.

    Read Also: INEC to revalidate voter register before 2027 polls

    The statement read, “As we mark exactly fifty(50) years since the creation of our dear Ondo State, and I join millions of Ondo State indigenes and residents to celebrate this major milestone – our Golden Jubilee.

    “In the last fifty(50) years, Ondo State has contributed immensely to Nation building and our shared patrimony. Through our political, financial and human resource contributions, we have served as a key and indispensable partner in the political and economic stability of Nigeria. I congratulate everyone on this auspicious occasion.

    “As we wind down the Golden Jubilee celebrations, I call on political and thought leaders across the state to utilise this celebration as a moment of reflection, and to ponder over the future of the state.

    “It is imperative for us to pursue the growth and development of our state with renewed vigour and with a more pragmatic approach, in order to bequeath an Ondo State that generations behind us will be proud of.

    “Congratulations! God bless the Sunshine State.”

  • SWDC pushes for corridor-driven planning for region’s development

    SWDC pushes for corridor-driven planning for region’s development

    South-West Development Commission (SWDC) has begun a campaign for corridor-driven urban development planning in the region, listing affordability, integration and sustainability as key benefits.

    Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), Dr. Charles Akinola, made this known during a panel session at WEMABOD 2026 Real Estate Outlook in Lagos.

    He said corridor-driven urban development addressed solo efforts by states and developers, which produced fragmented and unsustainable urban projects.

    He said SWDC would help align multi-state infrastructure corridors and transit

    systems with planned urban growth nodes to foster connected development, thereby making it economically productive and environmentally more sustainable.

    In his presentation titled: ‘ Regional Agenda for Sustainable Real Estate And Urban Growth,’ Akinola cited the example of the growth along Lekki-Epe and Free Trade Zone belt in Lagos, which had successfully developed the area in a sustainable manner.

    He said proper regional rail development would produce the same result.

    Said he: “The mistake we often make is to plan housing and real estate first and then try to retrofit infrastructure later. The model is costly and unsustainable.

    A better model is corridor-led planning — where major transport routes, logistic

    networks, industrial clusters and mobility systems are mapped first, and then housing,

    commercial centres and social infrastructure are deliberately located around growth nodes along those corridors.

    “This approach produces three benefits. First, it connects housing to jobs and markets, which improves affordability in real life, not just on paper. Second, it allows bulk infrastructure to be delivered more efficiently at scale. Third, it prevents the emergence of isolated estates that later become socially and economically stressed.”

    Read Also: SWDC boss expresses readiness to implement critical decisions

    The SWDC boss stressed that upfront planning of trunk infrastructure at corridor scale reduced cost, improved infrastructure quality as well as environmental resilience.

    “When trunk infrastructure is planned and financed upfront at corridor or regional scale, two things happen. Costs drop because of economies of scale, and quality improves because infrastructure is designed as a system, not as an afterthought.

    Infrastructure-first planning also improves environmental resilience. Drainage, flood control, transport access and utility capacity can be properly engineered before dense settlement occurs. That reduces future urban risk and remediation costs.

    “From a regional standpoint, sequencing matters: infrastructure first, then large- scale development — not the reverse. This is how cities grow in a way that is financially viable, socially inclusive and environmentally durable.

    “If we coordinate better, plan regionally, and deliver infrastructure ahead of growth, the Southwest can become a model of integrated and inclusive urban development,” he said.

    Akinola says the commission is out to foster integration of state efforts, not to replace them, noting that it will help multiply impact and achieve desired sustainable urban development.

    “Integrated systems — not isolated projects — will define the success of urban future,” he said.

  • Abiodun pledges fairness, equitable development

    Abiodun pledges fairness, equitable development

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed his commitment to governing with fairness, justice and inclusiveness, assuring residents that development would continue to reach every part of the state.

    He spoke during the State Banquet at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, as part of activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary.

    Tracing the state’s journey since its creation on February 3, 1976, Abiodun said Ogun State had grown steadily into Nigeria’s industrial capital, driven by consistent investments and strategic planning.

    He said his administration had prioritised human capital development, education, housing, road infrastructure, health care, agriculture and sports, leading to what he described as unprecedented progress across sectors.

    “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the good people of Ogun State. I assure you that every promise I made will be fulfilled, and I will continue to govern with fairness, equity and justice,” the governor said.

    According to him, the administration’s development agenda has been evenly implemented across Ogun West, Ogun East and Ogun Central since 2019, restoring the state’s prominence at the national and international levels.

    Read Also: Education remains pillar of development, says Abiodun

    The governor highlighted the rising global profile of Adire fabric, describing it as a symbol of Ogun’s cultural revival and growing economic influence.

    Calling on residents to sustain their support, Abiodun pledged to build on the foundations laid by the state’s founding fathers to make Ogun a model of progress in Nigeria.

    Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele commended past administrations for laying strong foundations and thanked citizens for their continued trust in the current government.

    House of Assembly Speaker.Oludaisi Elemide described Ogun’s 50-year development journey as impressive, noting that the state had recorded transformation.

    The Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, said the expansion of judicial divisions across the state had strengthened access to justice.

    Former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo said Ogun’s industrial strength and human resources had positioned it as one of Nigeria’s leading states.

    Senator Sefiu Kaka, on behalf of former deputy governors, praised the consistency of leadership in the state and lauded the Abiodun administration for its commitment to sustainable development.

    Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, lauded the transformation of Abeokuta and improvements in security, urging the government to maintain the momentum.

    Dignitaries at the event, including former Military Administrator Col. Daniel Akintonde, industrialist S.K. Onafowokan, Senator Solomon Adeola and Isiaka Ibrahim also hailed the progress achieved over the past five decades.

    The celebration featured a colourful cultural performance titled: ‘Golden Strides’, anniversary cake cutting led by former governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, and musical performances by renowned artistes.

  • Makinde vows to inaugurate key projects, build stronger institutions

    Makinde vows to inaugurate key projects, build stronger institutions

    Governor Seyi Makinde has said Oyo State @ 50 celebration would continue over the next one year, with the inauguration of key projects and building of stronger institutions.

    He spoke at the closing ceremony/award night at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.to celebrate the state’s golden jubilee.

    At the event, 74 people from spheres of life such as, governance, public service, philanthropy, business, sports, academia, military/paramilitary, entertainment, banking/finance, judiciary/law, religion and medical sciences were given Oyo State Merit Award for contributing to the development of the state.    

    Governor Makinde said some projects that would transform transportation, logistics and economic growth across Ibadan and beyond, such as upgrade of Ladoke Akintola Airport and 32-kilometre first segment of Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road would be inaugurated before the end of the first quarter.

    He said the surveillance aircraft purchased to fortify security in the state would soon be delivered, adding that modern electric buses would also soon be delivered as part of his administration’s commitment to expanding transport infrastructure and ensuring public transportation remained efficient and affordable for the people.

    Read Also: My team will continue where I stop in 2027, says Makinde

    Makinde said past leaders of the state had made specific and general impact on the state, laying strong foundations, which successive administrations had continued to build on, leading to the state having an advanced public service and an improved education and social development.

    He noted that part of such impact was the free education introduced by former governor Bola Ige, which he (Makinde) benefited from as a student in the state, stressing that his government was also leaving a legacy of delivering long-term, system-driven infrastructure and transport reforms targeted at further expanding the economy of the state.

    The governor, who congratulated the recipients of Oyo State Merit Award, advised the coming generation of Oyo State residents to contribute their quotas to the development of the state, Nigeria and the betterment of the society, noting that such efforts would be duly honoured in future.

    The Chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazak, lauded Governor Makinde for reclaiming the former glory of the state through projects.

    Some of the former administrators/governors, including Major-General David Jemibewon (Rtd), the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who served as the 14th governor of Oyo State; family members of former Governors Bola Ige, Omololu Olunloyo, Alao-Akala and Abiola Ajimobi, who were honoured at the event, as well as recipients of Oyo State Merit Award, congratulated the people of the state, while also hailing the governor on the historic event.

    The event was attended by former Military Administrator of Oyo State, General Oladayo Popoola (Rtd); ex-Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; former Governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau; ex-Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Deacon Emmanuel Udom; wife of Oyo State governor, Tamunomini Makinde; wife of former Oyo State governor, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; deputy governor of the state, Bayo Lawal and a former deputy governor of the state, Hamid Gbadamosi.

    Other are: National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Kabiru Turaki; former Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Bode George and ex-Minister of Trade and Investments, Chief (Mrs) Onikepo Akande.

    The list also include: member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Fola Oyekunle; member representing Ibadan Kajola/Iseyin/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Shina Oyedeji; former Chairman of Nigeria Communications Commission, Prof Adeolu Akande; members of the PDP National Working Committee; local government chairmen, religious leaders, traditional rulers and service commanders, among others.

  • Lagos to close Apongbon bridge for six weeks

    Lagos to close Apongbon bridge for six weeks

    Lagos State Government has announced a traffic diversion plan to enable the Federal Ministry of Works carry out repair works on the Apongbon bridge.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi,  yesterday in Lagos.

    Osiyemi said the repairs would be carried out on the failed asphalt sections of the ramp/service lane linking Inner Marina to Apongbon Bridge as well as sections of Apongbon bridge on both the inbound and outbound lanes.

    According to Osiyemi, the repairs will begin with the service lane, and it is scheduled to run for six weeks, starting from February 5 to March 19.

    “To ensure the safety of road users and facilitate the smooth execution of the works, sections of the affected roads will be temporarily closed to traffic.

    “Consequently, motorists are advised to use the following alternative routes.

    “For inbound Apongbon service lane, motorists from Inner Marina should proceed to the Apongbon under bridge roundabout, connect to Adeniji Adele Road, continue through Ebute Ero, and use the ramp to Apongbon/Eko Bridge to continue their journeys.

    “Traffic from TBS, Third Mainland Bridge, and Victoria Island will connect their journeys through Apongbon Bridge to Eko Bridge,” he said.

    Read Also: Academy to bridge knowledge, skill gaps in livestock value chain

    He added that for the rehabilitation of the main carriageway on Apongbon Bridge, motorists from TBS, Third Mainland Bridge, and Victoria Island would ramp down at the Apongbon under bridge roundabout (by UBA).

    He said they should proceed via Inner Marina, connect with Apongbon Bridge service lane, and continue onto Eko Bridge.

    Osiyemi said upon completion of repair works on the inbound section, construction activities would shift to the outbound side of Apongbon Bridge.

    He said for rehabilitation of Apongbon Service Lane (Chapel Street), motorists from Eko Bridge heading to Inner Marina would be diverted through Ebute Ero Ramp, Adeniji Adele Road, and Apongbon under bridge roundabout to continue their journeys.

    “Traffic from Eko Bridge to outer Marina, Victoria Island, and Third Mainland Bridge will maintain through movement on Apongbon Bridge,” he said.

    He said for the rehabilitation of main carriageway on Apongbon Bridge, motorists heading to Outer Marina, CMS, Victoria Island, and Third Mainland Bridge would be diverted through Ebute Ero Ramp, Leventis, and Outer Marina/CMS.

    “Traffic bound for Inner Marina will ramp down through Chapel Street to the Apongbon under bridge roundabout to continue their journeys,” he said.

    He urged motorists to exercise patience and comply with traffic management measures put in place during this period.

    “The temporary road closures and diversions are necessary to ensure the successful repair works on the Apongbon Bridge,” he said.  

  • Government warns against unauthorised chieftaincy titles

    Government warns against unauthorised chieftaincy titles

    Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against assuming chieftaincy titles without official approval, warning that offenders risk arrest and prosecution under the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015.

    The warning was contained in a public notice titled: “Prohibition of Unapproved Chieftaincy Titles in Lagos State”, issued by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Bolaji Robert.

    He described the growing trend of self-proclaimed traditional rulers as disturbing, noting that it had generated tension, confusion and unnecessary disputes across the state.

    He said the development required urgent intervention to restore order and curb what he described as a rising culture of impunity.

    “The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to an unhealthy development where some individuals or groups have assumed certain chieftaincy titles, either on their own or as leaders of ethnic groups, without the approval of the state government.

    Read Also: Tinubu felicitates Rep Ogbara on Lagos chieftaincy honour

    “These titles are not recognised in the state, and their use has caused tension, confusion and needless crises. This situation requires urgent action to inject sanity and arrest the growing trend of impunity, in the interest of peace, law and order in the state,” he said.

    The commissioner explained that the public notice was issued to clarify the law guiding chieftaincy matters in Lagos and to sensitise residents on the need to comply with existing regulations.

    He acknowledged the right of groups to appoint leaders to coordinate their affairs, but warned against adopting royal titles or nomenclatures equivalent to that of recognised traditional rulers.

    “While we recognise the right of groups to appoint leaders to coordinate their affairs in Lagos State, the assumption of chieftaincy titles and nomenclatures equivalent to that of an ‘Oba’ or appellations such as ‘His Royal Majesty’, ‘His Royal Highness’ or its equivalent is in contravention of the extant Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015 and is illegal,” he said.