The Lagos State Government has cautioned individuals and groups against assuming or parading unauthorised chieftaincy titles, describing the practice as illegal and disruptive to public order.
In a public advisory issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Bolaji Robert, said the government had observed a growing trend of self-acclaimed traditional rulers and leaders adopting titles without official approval.
“These titles are not recognised in the State and their use has caused tension, confusion, and needless crises. The 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,” the advisory stated.
The government stressed that only the Governor has the authority to approve chieftaincy matters in Lagos, citing the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015. It warned that titles such as Oba, His Royal Majesty, or His Royal Highness assumed without approval are illegal.
READ ALSO: Kukah decries Nigeria’s daily killings, accuses foreign media of fueling religious divisions
The advisory further prohibited the use of royal insignia by unauthorised persons, including beaded crowns, staffs, horse whisks (irukere), and other paraphernalia.
“Any Chieftaincy title conferred without the Governor’s approval is null and void. Offenders risk punishment of two years imprisonment, as prescribed by Section 21 of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State 2015,” the statement added.
The government urged residents to comply with the law and desist from assuming titles without due approval, warning that violators may face legal action. It also encouraged the public to report cases of unauthorised titles to the ministry, security agencies, and relevant authorities for prompt intervention.
The post Lagos warns against unauthorised chieftaincy titles, threatens jail term appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria.
