A review of the Ondo State Chiefs Law 2006 (as amended) has revealed that traditional rulers who install minor chiefs without prior approval from the state governor are committing a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment.
The law, which governs the administration and recognition of traditional titles in Ondo State, explicitly requires written approval from the governor before any minor chieftaincy title can be conferred.
In the Nigerian context, a minor traditional chief is a leader within a specific community or quarter, subordinate to higher-ranking traditional rulers such as an Olu, or Baale.
Despite this legal requirement, many traditional rulers have, over the years, continued to install minor chiefs without complying with the law. This has frequently led to disputes and crises in various communities across the state.
Section 22(1) of the law states:
“Any person who installs or purports to install a person as a minor chief in contravention of the provisions of this Law shall be guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of two years or to a fine or to both such imprisonment and fine.”
The law further mandates:
“No person shall be installed or recognized as a minor chief unless the approval of the governor has first been obtained in writing.”
These provisions highlight the legal framework established to regulate traditional institutions and ensure that the installation of minor chiefs follows due process and state oversight. The aim is to prevent unauthorized appointments, avoid communal conflicts, and uphold the integrity of the traditional chieftaincy system in the state.
Legal experts affirm that this section of the law remains valid and enforceable.
“Under the Ondo State Chiefs Law, it is a criminal offense for any person to install or appoint a minor chief without obtaining prior written approval from the prescribed authority designated by the state government.”
“The law stipulates that any individual who installs a minor chief without the necessary governmental approval is liable to face legal consequences, including imprisonment. Specifically, offenders may be subjected to a prison term of up to two years.”
“In a related context, the Ondo State government has also emphasized that minor chiefs are prohibited from wearing beaded crowns, a privilege reserved exclusively for recognized Obas. Violation of this directive can result in imprisonment for up to three years, as part of the state’s efforts to uphold the sanctity and hierarchy of traditional leadership structures”
“These legal measures reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining order and preventing unauthorized assumption of traditional titles, which could lead to disputes and instability within communities.”
The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs continues to serve as the key advisory body to the governor on chieftaincy matters. All prospective installations must go through proper channels.
Experts warn that any violation of these provisions could result not only in the invalidation of such chieftaincy titles but also in criminal prosecution and possible imprisonment.
