By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Government has officially deposed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, and reportedly declared the royal stool vacant with immediate effect.
The decision, according to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, followed due consultation, legal review, and approval by the State Executive Council (EXCO).
Alimi stated that the action was taken in line with the provisions of the Osun State Chiefs Law (as amended) and other relevant legal frameworks guiding traditional institutions in the state.
The government also announced the withdrawal of the staff of office and all instruments of authority previously conferred on the monarch.
Although the statement did not go into extensive details, findings indicate that the deposed monarch had been convicted in the United States over COVID-19-related fraud and is currently serving a jail term.
With the development, the stool of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area has now been declared vacant, paving the way for the selection of a new traditional ruler in accordance with established procedures.
The move marks a significant intervention by the Osun State Government in upholding legal and traditional standards within the state’s chieftaincy system.
