Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has approved the deposition of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Oloyede, following the monarch’s conviction and imprisonment in the United States over fraud-related offences. The decision has stirred fresh conversations across the country about accountability among traditional rulers and public office holders.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the action was taken after the Osun State Government received the Certified True Copy of the judgment delivered by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. The court had found the monarch guilty of wire fraud, filing false tax returns, and engaging in financial transactions involving proceeds traced to criminal activities.
Oba Joseph Oloyede was reportedly sentenced on August 26, 2025, to 56 months in prison after pleading guilty in connection with a multi million-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud scheme in the United States. Reports indicated that the case involved the fraudulent acquisition of relief funds meant to support struggling businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The Osun State Government explained that the monarch’s removal became necessary in order to protect the integrity and dignity of the traditional institution. Authorities also clarified that the government deliberately waited to obtain official court documents before taking any action, rather than relying on social media reports and public speculation.
With the deposition now officially approved, the stool of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu has been declared vacant. The government said the necessary traditional and legal procedures would soon begin for the selection and installation of a new monarch for the ancient town.
Governor Adeleke also appealed to residents and indigenes of Ipetumodu to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding throughout the transition process. The administration stressed its commitment to preserving peace and ensuring that the selection of a new traditional ruler follows due process.
The development marks one of the most high-profile royal depositions in recent Nigerian history and has generated widespread reactions within political and traditional circles. Many observers see the move as a strong message that traditional institutions must uphold the highest standards of integrity, especially at a time when public confidence in leadership remains a major national concern.
