The Osun State Government has deposed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North local government area of the state, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, with immediate effect.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that Oba Oloyede was sentenced to jail in the United States for COVID-19 fraud and is currently serving a jail term in the country.
In a statement made available by the commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the state government said Oloyede was deposed following due consultation, legal review, and approval by the State Executive Council.
The statement read in part, “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.”
The statement added that the staff of office and instruments of authority earlier issued to the monarch have been withdrawn and the stool of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu declared vacant.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 government will, in due course, communicate the appropriate steps regarding succession in line with customary and legal frameworks,” it stated.
While security agencies have been directed to ensure maintenance of peace and order in the affected community, the government called on all residents of Ipetumodu, kingmakers, ruling houses, and stakeholders to remain calm, law-abiding, and peaceful.
