The Egba Traditional Council has announced the six-month suspension of Oba Taofeek Owolabi, the Olu of Obafe in Obafemi/Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State. The suspension comes after allegations of land grabbing were raised against the monarch by the Agboro Olatunde Community Development Association.
The suspension was communicated through a letter dated December 13, 2024, signed by Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland and President of the Egba Traditional Council. According to the council, Oba Owolabi failed to respond to invitations from both the Ogun State House of Assembly and the council’s Ethical Committee to address the allegations.
The allegations originated on January 29, 2024, when the Agboro Olatunde Community Development Association petitioned the House of Assembly, accusing the monarch of illegally acquiring land. Despite being invited to three separate hearings in July, Oba Owolabi did not appear.
Adding to the controversy, the monarch was arraigned in October before a Magistrate’s Court in Owode-Egba. The charges include defrauding a man named Michael Adeyemi of ₦75 million and assaulting a police officer. These legal issues are still under judicial review.
Citing Section 36 (1) and (2) of the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law of 2021, the Egba Traditional Council resolved to suspend Oba Owolabi. The letter states, “The Ethical Committee of the Egba Traditional Council held a session of dialogue with you to no avail. In line with Section 36 (1) and (2) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021, and for conduct entirely unexpected of anyone who has any claim to being a traditional ruler, the council passed a resolution to suspend you for six months without pay, effective December 13, 2024.”
During the suspension, the monarch is barred from public appearances, attending official functions, or presenting himself as the Olu of Obafe. His entitlements, including salary, are also suspended for the duration.
The council notified Ganiyu Hamzat, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, of the decision. The letter emphasized that the suspension aims to uphold the dignity and accountability expected of traditional rulers.
