The Osun State Government has removed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, bringing an abrupt end to his reign and leaving the royal stool officially vacant. Read original
The decision, announced on Monday, followed legal reviews and approval by the State Executive Council, according to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi.
Authorities said the monarch’s removal was in line with existing chieftaincy laws guiding traditional institutions in the state.
“This decision was taken in accordance with the Osun State Chiefs Law…,” the statement noted, adding that all instruments of office previously issued to the monarch have been withdrawn.
A throne caught in controversy
The development comes months after Oba Oloyede was convicted in the United States over COVID-19-related fraud and sentenced to prison.
Since the conviction, tension had been building in Ipetumodu, with divisions among kingmakers and ruling houses over whether to keep the throne open or install a new ruler.
Residents and stakeholders had repeatedly called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to act, warning that the delay was creating uncertainty in the town.
Government speaks, security alerted
With the latest move, the government confirmed the stool is now vacant and promised to begin the succession process in line with tradition and the law.
Officials also directed security agencies to maintain calm in the community.
“Security agencies have been directed to maintain peace and order,” the statement added.
What happens next
The government said it will soon outline steps for selecting a new monarch, urging residents and stakeholders to remain law-abiding as the process unfolds.
For now, one of Osun’s prominent traditional stools stands empty—marking a rare and dramatic shift in the state’s royal structure.