Lagos Proposes Overhaul of Chieftaincy Law, Expands Governor’s Authority and Codifies Monarchs’ Roles

In a historic move to modernize traditional governance, the Lagos State Government is set to repeal and re-enact the Obas and Chiefs Law, introducing a comprehensive legal framework that redefines the roles of traditional rulers and strengthens government oversight.

The draft bill, currently under review following a high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Ministry of Justice, seeks to clarify the functions, powers, and legal standing of monarchs within Lagos’ evolving administrative landscape. Attendees included traditional rulers from the state’s five divisions, lawmakers, legal experts, and community leaders.

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Defining the Role of Traditional Rulers

One of the bill’s key innovations is the formal codification of the duties of Obas and Chiefs. Section 2 of the proposed law lists their responsibilities as conflict mediation, community development, grassroots communication, security support, and advocacy for tax compliance. This legal recognition aims to resolve longstanding ambiguity surrounding their function in democratic governance.

The bill also exempts official palaces and heritage homes—such as the Iga and Awanu—from property rates, acknowledging their cultural significance and allowing for state-supported maintenance, subject to the consent of the ruling Oba or Chief.

Governor’s Authority Over Chieftaincy Affairs

A major and contentious feature of the bill is the expanded power of the Governor in chieftaincy matters. Under the new law, the Governor can approve, reject, or reverse traditional appointments—even if customary selection processes are followed—based on public interest, peace, or order.

While this provision is intended to prevent disputes, critics argue it centralizes authority excessively. To mitigate concerns, the bill permits affected parties to challenge such decisions in court within 21 days and mandates a 60-day response window for the Governor on petitions.

Regulation of Customary Chiefs and Anti-Impersonation Measures

To address the proliferation of impostor chiefs, the bill introduces penalties for unauthorized installations. Section 23 prescribes up to two years’ imprisonment or a N5 million fine for installing or impersonating a chief without approval. It also penalizes those who obstruct installation rites or occupy chieftaincy property unlawfully.

Chieftaincy Committees at the local government level will handle appointments and disputes, ensuring adherence to custom and legality.

Criteria for Establishing New Chieftaincy Titles

The bill stipulates that any new traditional stool must be at least 120 years old under customary law. Proposals will undergo a public inquiry, legal vetting, and community feedback within a 30-day period before final approval by the Governor. This process aims to preserve the integrity of traditional institutions and avoid politically motivated creations.

Reclassification of Obas and Control of Honorary Titles

The law also introduces a classification system for monarchs: Special Grade, Grades A, B, and C (which includes upgraded Baales). This is expected to reduce intra-council disputes over status.

The conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles is now restricted to Obas—limited to five per year and subject to prior approval by the Commissioner. Unauthorized title conferments are criminalized, carrying similar penalties as illegal installations. Additionally, honorary chiefs cannot be elevated to full traditional rulers.

Restructuring of the Council of Traditional Rulers

Part 8 of the proposed law reorganizes the Lagos State Council of Traditional Rulers. The Oba of Lagos becomes the permanent Chairman, supported by four Deputy Chairmen representing the state’s divisions and five rotating Vice Chairmen from Grade A monarchs. With a 60-member council, the body will advise the state on traditional matters, provide policy feedback, and assist with conflict resolution.

Conclusion

Lagos State’s bold legislative initiative could redefine the relationship between modern government and traditional institutions. By clarifying roles, regulating appointments, and institutionalizing legitimacy, the proposed law aims to harmonize cultural heritage with contemporary governance needs.

If implemented with fairness and diligence, the new chieftaincy law could serve as a national model for traditional leadership reform.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, will tomorrow at noon host a stakeholders’ parley with leaders, elected and appointed officials, as well as chairmanship and councillorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House, Marina.

The high-level meeting is expected to serve as a strategic rallying point for party mobilisation ahead of the July 12 local government elections.

This follows the formal presentation of party flags to the 57 APC chairmanship candidates last week at the party’s state secretariat in Ogba — a colourful event attended by key figures in government and the party hierarchy. The ceremony marked the official commencement of campaigns and provided a morale boost to party faithful in anticipation of another electoral victory.

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The Lagos APC expresses deep appreciation for the trust and confidence reposed in the party by Lagosians, which has continued to drive the state’s unmatched progress across all sectors.

We remain confident that the outstanding achievements of our local councils — particularly in education, primary healthcare, housing, and grassroots social interventions — will be rewarded with widespread voter support at the polls.

The Lagos State Government, through the State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA), has called for the adoption of integrated urban farming solutions to address food insecurity and promote sustainable food systems across the state.

This call was made during a one-day Stakeholders’ Workshop on Urban Agriculture held at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin. The workshop aimed to sensitise Heads of Agriculture Units from the 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), as well as environmental health officers, on the strategic importance of urban agriculture.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya—represented by Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, Director of Veterinary Services—stressed the urgency of promoting urban agricultural land use and increasing grassroots awareness. She said that cascading this knowledge with the right education and technical support was vital for building a sustainable food future.

“Integrating agriculture into urban landscapes reduces reliance on external food sources, cuts down transportation costs, and improves access to fresh, nutritious produce,” Olusanya said. “The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems and its agencies, is fully committed to this vision. We are developing enabling policies, strengthening extension services, supporting innovation, and partnering with local councils to scale up urban farming across the state.”

She also noted that urban agriculture must evolve from small pilot schemes to being embedded in schools, homes, markets, and faith-based institutions.

LSADA Programme Manager, Mr. Alade Aliru, highlighted the benefits of cultivating food close to where it is consumed. He explained that this approach reduces the environmental impact of food transportation while fostering greener, healthier cities.

“This workshop is designed to engage stakeholders on the opportunities and practical strategies for implementing urban agriculture in their local communities,” Aliru said. “From backyard gardens to vertical farms and container planting, urban agriculture is becoming a key part of our evolving food ecosystem.”

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Emmanuel Fatai Audu—represented by Director of Fisheries, Mr. Daisi Agarrey—emphasized that rapid urbanisation has placed immense pressure on land and food systems. He described urban farming as a strategic response.

“Urban agriculture is no longer a choice—it is a necessity,” Audu stated. “It’s not just about growing food; it’s about building healthier communities, greener environments, and resilient livelihoods.”

The workshop forms part of Lagos State’s broader commitment to sustainable development and environmental resilience through innovative agricultural practices.