PRESS RELEASE
BADAGRY WEST LCDA STOPS UNAUTHORIZED ‘EZE NDI-IGBO’ PALACE PROJECT, REAFFIRMS RULE OF LAW AND PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE
*The Executive Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren (RIKAY), has directed the immediate suspension of the unauthorized “Eze Ndi-Igbo Palace Project” and all related activities within the LCDA.*
This directive follows reports of a letter circulating under the name of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo Traditional Ruling Council, Badagry West LCDA, soliciting public funds for the construction of a “New Palace” and promoting the use of the title Eze Ndi-Igbo of Badagry West LCDA.
In a formal communication signed by Mesewaku M. Stephen, Esq., Head of Legal Services Unit, the Council clarified that the title of “Eze Ndi-Igbo” is not known to the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State, and therefore holds no legal or traditional recognition within the state’s governance framework.
“While the Council recognises and appreciates the positive influence of the Igbo community in Badagry West LCDA, it will not allow any act or title that is alien to the laws of Lagos State to take root,” the statement reads. “Anything not known to law remains an illegality.”
The Council recalled a recent conviction of an individual for parading himself as Eze Ndi-Igbo of Ajao Estate, describing the current situation as a similar breach that must be addressed lawfully to maintain order and respect for existing institutions.
Hon. Yemaren emphasized that Badagry West LCDA remains one of the most peaceful and ethnically accommodating councils in Lagos State, but such peace is built on the rule of law and respect for constituted authorities.
“We do not oppose having a community leader among the Igbos to coordinate their social and administrative affairs,” he said, “but such leadership must not assume or be styled in a manner that contradicts the chieftaincy laws or the authority of the recognised royal fathers; the Alapa of Apa Kingdom and the Akweno of Kweme Kingdom.”
The Council further directed that all activities connected to the unauthorized palace project and the purported Eze Ndi-Igbo title be stopped forthwith. It also reaffirmed its willingness to continue supporting lawful community development initiatives that promote peace, unity, and mutual respect.
Hon. Yemaren assured residents that the Council remains committed to protecting the integrity of indigenous institutions, while fostering peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups in Badagry West.
The directive has been duly communicated to: His Royal Majesty, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, the Akweno of Kweme Kingdom, The Area Commander, Nigeria Police, Area ‘K’ Command and The Divisional Police Officer, Seme Division
The general public is hereby advised to disregard any fundraising or correspondence connected to the purported Eze Ndi-Igbo Palace Project in Badagry West LCDA.
Solomon ZOSU
Chief Press Secretary
Badagry West Local Council Development Area
October 9, 2025