Tinubu's Strategic Clampdown: Security Withdrawn from Lagos Monarchs in Political Power Shift

Exclusive Report: Inside the Political Storm Reshaping Lagos’ Traditional Power Structures

In a bold assertion of federal authority, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the indefinite withdrawal of government-assigned security personnel from two influential Lagos monarchs—Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi and Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, the Oniru of Iruland. This drastic move follows their alleged backing of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s controversial push to impeach Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.

This unprecedented shake-up not only underscores the president's grip on power but also exposes deepening cracks in Lagos' political elite. The trusted pillars of traditional authority have now been thrust into a modern political chess game—one with national consequences.

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Key Developments in the Political Unrest

1. A Calculated Impeachment: The January 13 Coup

On January 13, 2025, lawmakers loyal to Sanwo-Olu voted to impeach Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, citing corruption, abuse of office, and betrayal of legislative trust. Although the impeachment was quickly reversed, it sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political class and reportedly angered the president—himself a political godfather to many in Lagos' ruling hierarchy.

2. The Monarchs' Involvement: Power, Allegiances, and Fallout

According to sources close to the presidency, both Oba Elegushi and Oba Oniru were seen as instrumental in rallying support for Sanwo-Olu’s agenda. Their influence was allegedly used to sway key legislators, lending legitimacy to the impeachment effort. Tinubu viewed this as a "stab in the back", given long-standing ties with the monarchs.

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Security Revoked: Tinubu's Tactical Retaliation

As part of what insiders describe as a "quiet but firm show of force," President Tinubu instructed the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately withdraw all federal security operatives attached to the two monarchs.

Sources confirm that the monarchs are now depending solely on private security firms. The message is clear: No one, not even kings, is beyond political consequence.

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Traditional Institutions Caught in Crossfire

This move also raises concerns over the increasing politicization of Nigeria's traditional rulers. Traditionally seen as neutral custodians of culture, their recent entanglements suggest a shift into influential political brokers. However, with this status now under scrutiny, a recalibration of their role may be imminent.

“This is not merely about withdrawing security—it’s a symbol. It signals that the federal government will no longer tolerate backdoor political intrigues.”
— Political Analyst, Dr. Ayodele Sogunro

Despite the backlash, Governor Sanwo-Olu has doubled down on "partnership with traditional rulers for grassroots governance", attempting to smooth tensions. He insists the impeachment attempt was legislative will, not executive overreach, and has called for a “renewed spirit of collaboration”.

Yet, the timing and coordination of events suggest otherwise—and Tinubu’s inner circle isn’t buying the explanation.

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What This Means for the Future of Governance in Lagos

This power struggle lays bare the delicate interplay between traditional institutions and modern politics in Nigeria. While monarchs once held sway behind the scenes, their influence has now placed them squarely in the crosshairs of national politics.

Implications:

• Traditional rulers may face tighter restrictions in state-level politics.

• State-federal relationships could be tested further in upcoming elections.

• Obasa’s political capital has paradoxically been strengthened post-reinstatement.

In this new era of Nigerian politics, royal crowns no longer shield against federal might. President Tinubu’s withdrawal of security from Lagos monarchs is more than a protective decision—it’s a political masterstroke aimed at consolidating control and reasserting dominance.

As Lagosians look to the future, one truth emerges with startling clarity: In the political jungles of Nigeria, loyalty isn’t just rewarded—it’s required.