The Executive Chairman, Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren has ordered the immediate suspension of the unauthorized “Eze Ndi-Igbo Palace Project’’ in the council area.
The directive followed reports of a letter purportedly issued by a group under the name Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo Traditional Ruling Council, Badagry West LCDA, soliciting funds for the construction of a new palace and promoting the title Eze Ndi-Igbo of Badagry West LCDA.
A statement signed by Mesewaku M. Stephen, Head of Legal Services Unit, clarified that the title “Eze Ndi-Igbo” is not recognized under the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State and therefore lacks legal or traditional standing within the state.
“While the Council recognises the positive contributions of the Igbo community in Badagry West LCDA, it will not allow any title or act alien to the laws of Lagos State,” the statement said.
The Council noted that a similar case recently led to the conviction of a man for parading himself as Eze Ndi-Igbo of Ajao Estate, stressing that such violations would not be tolerated in Badagry West.
Yemaren said the LCDA remains one of the most peaceful and ethnically inclusive councils in Lagos State, adding that such harmony rests on respect for law and constituted authority.
“We do not oppose having a community leader among the Igbos to coordinate their affairs,” he said. “But such leadership must not assume a title or structure that conflicts with chieftaincy laws or undermines the authority of recognised royal fathers — the Alapa of Apa Kingdom and the Akweno of Kweme Kingdom.”
The chairman directed that all activities related to the purported palace project be stopped immediately, assuring residents that the Council would continue to support lawful community initiatives that promote peace and unity.
The directive, according to the Council, has been communicated to the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, the Akweno of Kweme Kingdom, the Area Commander, Nigeria Police (Area K Command), and the Divisional Police Officer, Seme Division.
The public was advised to disregard any fundraising or correspondence linked to the unapproved palace project.
