Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede was removed as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu by the Osun State Government with immediate effect due to his conviction in the US for fraud relating to COVID-19.
Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday.
Alimi revealed that the State Executive Council’s consent, legal assessment, and appropriate consultation before the action.
He clarified that the action was compliant with the Osun State Chiefs Law, as modified, and other pertinent laws governing the state’s traditional institutions.
The statement said, “The decision was reached after due consultation, legal consideration, and approval by the State Executive Council.”
The state government claims that the monarch’s conviction overseas made his removal necessary.
“Oba Oloyede is currently serving a prison sentence after being convicted in the United States for offenses related to COVID-19 fraud,” the statement continued.
According to reports, a US court condemned the Apetumodu in 2025.
The administration also declared that the monarch’s staff of office and all other authorities had been revoked.
It further stated that the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu stool had been deemed vacant while succession procedures were initiated.
Alimi stated, “The government will, in due course, outline the succession process in line with established customary and legal procedures.”
Security personnel have been instructed to uphold law and order in the neighborhood, and locals, legislators, and other interested parties have been advised to keep composure.
In accordance with established norms, Ipetumodu, the headquarters of Osun State’s Ife North Local Government Area, is anticipated to start traditional procedures to fill the empty seat.
