Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed concern over the escalating tension in Ipetumodu following the reported jailing of Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu, by a USA District Court for fraud.
Oloyede was sentenced to 56 months in prison by Judge Christopher Boyko for a $4.2 million COVID-19 fraud and filing of falsified tax documents.
His incarceration has left Ipetumodu, the headquarters of Ife-North Local Government Area, without a monarch, sparking disputes among the Princes and kingmakers.
Reports indicate that some kingmakers are hesitant to initiate the process of selecting a new monarch, with the beaded crown and other paraphernalia reportedly missing.
Certain kingmakers reportedly wish to wait for Oloyede’s release, citing his previous goodwill towards them, a stance that has frustrated other members of the community.
After a State Executive Meeting that continued into Friday night, Governor Adeleke described the situation as ugly, according to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi. He directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to take swift action regarding the matter.
“The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs should take action on the ugly development at Ipetumodu where the king was recently jailed in the United States of America,” the governor was quoted as saying.
The Aribile ruling house welcomed the governor’s directive, viewing it as a long-awaited intervention.
Prince Olaboye Ayoola told Vanguard, “The directive of the governor is in line with the expectations of our people and we believe it is a step in the right direction.”
Chief Sunday Adedeji, head of the kingmakers, stated that they would await further instructions before proceeding with any action.
