- Lagos State bans unauthorised chieftaincy titles and royal paraphernalia
- Governor reaffirmed as the sole approving authority for chieftaincy titles
- Offenders risk prosecution and up to two years imprisonment
The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning against the assumption and use of unapproved chieftaincy titles across the state, declaring such acts illegal and punishable under the law.
EDITOR’S PICK
- EFCC Arraigns Man for Allegedly Defrauding US Investors of $525,276
- Tinubu’s State Visit Yields Nigeria–Turkey Diaspora Partnership
- FG, States, LGs Receive ₦1.969trn as FAAC Allocation for December 2025
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a public advisory release on Monday, February 2, 2026, the government expressed concern over the rising trend of individuals and groups parading self-styled royal titles without official approval, noting that the practice has fueled tension, confusion, and avoidable crises in several communities.
According to the advisory, the unchecked proliferation of self-acclaimed chieftaincy titles has reached an alarming level, undermining both state authority and the integrity of traditional institutions.
It noted that earlier interventions by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development have not yielded the desired results, necessitating stricter enforcement measures.
While acknowledging Lagos State’s cosmopolitan nature and the presence of diverse ethnic groups, the government clarified that although ethnic associations may appoint coordinators or leaders, the adoption of chieftaincy titles equivalent to that of an Oba or the use of appellations such as His Royal Majesty or His Royal Highness contravenes the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015.
“The law clearly states 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,” the statement read.
The government further warned that the unauthorised use of royal paraphernalia such as beaded crowns, beaded shoes, staffs of office, and horse whisks by unrecognised individuals is expressly prohibited.
Any chieftaincy title conferred without the Governor’s approval, it stressed, is null and void.
“Offenders, upon conviction, risk prosecution and imprisonment of up to two years as prescribed by law,” the advisory stated.
The government called on individuals, ethnic groups, and associations to comply strictly with the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015 and desist from installing or parading anyone as a traditional ruler without due approval.
It added that enforcement will be carried out in collaboration with local government councils, LCDAs, and security agencies.
“All persons currently holding unapproved chieftaincy titles are advised to desist immediately, as failure to comply will attract legal action,” the statement warned.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report cases of illegal chieftaincy titles to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development and relevant security agencies for prompt action.
The advisory was signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert.
