Governor Ademola Adeleke has officially deposed Joseph Oloyede as the Apetu of Ipetumodu following the monarch’s conviction and imprisonment in the United States over a multi-million-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud case.
The development was confirmed on Monday in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, who said the decision was taken in line with the laws guiding traditional institutions in Osun State.
Oloyede, who served as the traditional ruler of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area, was sentenced in August 2025 to 56 months imprisonment by a United States court after being found guilty of fraud involving COVID-19 intervention funds.
According to reports, the monarch and his associates were accused of illegally obtaining about $4.2 million from relief programmes introduced by the US government to support businesses and individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The case attracted widespread attention both in Nigeria and abroad due to Oloyede’s status as a traditional ruler. Authorities in the United States reportedly said false information and fraudulent documents were used to secure the funds.
The Osun State Government said the removal of the monarch became necessary to protect the integrity and dignity of the traditional institution.
The statement noted that the administration of Governor Adeleke remains committed to upholding accountability, respect for the law, and the sanctity of royal stools across the state.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail the development, with many residents of Ipetumodu and political observers describing the decision as a major step toward preserving public trust in traditional leadership.
As of the time of filing this report, no official announcement had been made regarding the appointment of a new Apetu of Ipetumodu.
