Oluwo bars lawmaker from palace in Iwo, accusing him of neglecting traditional institutions amid rising political tension

Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo in Osun State, has barred Lukman Mudashiru, the lawmaker representing Ayedire/Iwo/Olaoluwa Federal Constituency, from entering his palace over alleged neglect of traditional institutions.

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The monarch announced the decision in a statement shared on Friday, accusing the federal lawmaker of failing to maintain expected ties with Iwo’s traditional leadership despite representing the constituency at the National Assembly.

In the strongly worded statement, Oba Akanbi emphasised the cultural and political significance of the Oluwo stool, insisting that elected representatives owe the traditional authority a sense of accountability.

“By virtue of these pedigrees, Oluwo deserves the most traditional honour in the district. If you are a politician representing any or all areas in the district, you owe Oluwo a stewardship explanation,” the monarch stated.

The development follows earlier criticism by the Oluwo, who had publicly accused Mr Mudashiru, an indigene of Iwo, of sidelining traditional institutions in the area.

The monarch had also recently endorsed Ayodeji Bello, another Iwo indigene, for the Accord Party ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections, a move seen by observers as politically significant.

Reinforcing his stance, Oba Akanbi declared that the lawmaker would no longer be allowed access to the palace, stressing that respect for traditional authority remains non-negotiable.

“As a cultured Yoruba man, would you start bathing from the leg? Capital NO. The day a man tries to walk with his head is the day he begins an open madness,” the statement added in a metaphor-laden rebuke.

The directive has introduced fresh tension into the local political landscape, highlighting the delicate interplay between traditional institutions and elected officials in the region.

The Oluwo bars lawmaker decision underscores the enduring influence of royal authority in community affairs.

Responding briefly to the development, Mr Mudashiru downplayed the dispute, describing it as a personal matter that would be resolved amicably.

“It is an issue between a father and his son. It will be resolved because it is a family affair,” he said.

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Despite the conciliatory tone, the situation reflects broader questions about accountability, respect for tradition, and political alignment as the build-up to the 2027 elections gradually intensifies.