Osun Govt deposes monarch serving jail term in US over COVID-19 fraud
The Osun State Government has officially deposed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, following his conviction and imprisonment in the United States over COVID-19 fraud.
The decision was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi.
Government Announces Immediate Deposition
According to the statement, the monarch’s removal takes immediate effect after consultations, legal review, and approval by the Osun State Executive Council.
The government explained that the action was taken in line with the provisions of the Osun State Chiefs Law and other legal regulations guiding traditional institutions across the state.
Part of the statement read: “This decision was taken in accordance with the Osun State Chiefs Law (as amended) and other relevant legal provisions guiding traditional institutions in the state.”
Monarch Reportedly Serving Jail Term in US
Reports indicated that Oba Oloyede was sentenced to prison in the United States after being found guilty in a COVID-19 fraud case.
The monarch is currently said to be serving his jail term in the US, a development that reportedly sparked concerns among stakeholders within the state over the image of the traditional institution.
Staff of Office Withdrawn
Following the deposition, the Osun State Government confirmed that all instruments of authority earlier issued to the monarch have been withdrawn.
The government also declared the stool of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu vacant pending the commencement of a fresh succession process.
“The staff of office and instruments of authority earlier issued to the monarch have been withdrawn and the stool of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu declared vacant,” the statement added.
Government Speaks on Successor Process
The state government noted that appropriate steps regarding the selection of a new monarch would be communicated later.
Authorities stated that the process would follow laid down customary procedures and legal frameworks guiding succession within the community.
Officials also assured residents that the process would be transparent and in accordance with tradition.
Security Agencies Directed to Maintain Peace
Meanwhile, security agencies have been instructed to maintain peace and order in Ipetumodu and surrounding areas following the development.
The government urged residents, kingmakers, ruling houses, and other stakeholders in the town to remain calm and avoid actions capable of disrupting public peace.