By Lagos, Nigeria- The Lagos State Government has warned individuals and groups against adopting Chieftaincy titles without official approval, stating that such actions are illegal under the laws of the State.
In a public advisory issued Monday night, the Government said its attention had been drawn to a growing trend of people assuming traditional titles on their own or in the name of leading ethnic or community groups.
According to the statement, these titles are not recognised by the State and have led to tension, confusion, and avoidable disputes.
The Government said the development required urgent intervention to maintain peace, law, and order. It added that previous efforts by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development to curb the trend had not been fully effective.
While acknowledging Lagos as a cosmopolitan state that accommodates people from different ethnic backgrounds, the Government stated that communities may appoint leaders for coordination purposes but must not adopt titles equivalent to that of an Oba or use royal styles such as “His Royal Majesty” or “His Royal Highness” without legal backing. It said such actions contravene the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015.
The advisory stated that only the Governor of Lagos State, acting through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, has the authority to approve Chieftaincy titles. It cited Sections 15, 16, 17, 18, and 20 of the law as outlining the procedures for filling vacancies and granting recognition.
The Government also referenced Section 21(2)(a–d) and Section 23(a & b) of the law, which it said prohibit unrecognised persons from using royal titles such as “King” or “HRM,” as well as the use of royal paraphernalia, including beaded crowns or their imitations, beaded shoes, ceremonial staffs, and horse whisks, also known as irukere.
According to the statement, the State Government will begin stricter enforcement of the law and prosecute violators. It said that any Chieftaincy title conferred without the Governor’s approval is null and void.
The advisory further stated that offenders, upon conviction, are liable to a two year term of imprisonment under Section 21(1) and Section 21(2)(d) of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015.
The Government urged individuals and groups to comply with the law and refrain from installing or parading themselves as traditional rulers equivalent to an Oba or King without approval. It added that security agencies, local government authorities, and local government development areas would work together to enforce compliance.
Residents were also encouraged to report cases of unauthorised Chieftaincy titles to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, as well as relevant security agencies, for appropriate action.
