The Osun State Government has removed Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede from his position as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu with immediate effect.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, on behalf of the state government.
Alimi said the decision followed extensive consultations, legal review, and approval by the State Executive Council.
He noted that the action was carried out in line with the provisions of the Osun State Chiefs Law, as amended, along with other relevant laws governing traditional institutions.
According to the government, “Oba Oloyede was convicted in the United States for offences linked to COVID-19 fraud and is currently serving a prison sentence.”
“The decision was reached after due consultation, legal consideration and approval by the State Executive Council.”
The government also announced that all instruments of authority previously issued to the monarch, including the staff of office, had been withdrawn.
It added that the stool of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu had been declared vacant pending further processes.
“The government will, in due course, outline the process for succession in line with established customary and legal procedures,” Alimi said.
Security agencies were directed to maintain peace and order in the community, while residents, kingmakers and stakeholders were urged to remain calm, law-abiding and peaceful.
Ipetumodu town is the headquarters of Ife North local government council area of Osun State and the Apetumodu was sentenced by a US court in 2025 for COVID-19 fraud.