Osun State Deposes Oba Oloyed Over Fraud Conviction

The Osun State Government has officially deposed Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyed of Ipetumodu, declaring the royal stool vacant effective immediately. This decision was communicated through a statement issued by Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information.

The action follows extensive consultations and a thorough legal review, which received subsequent approval from the State Executive Council (Exco). The government emphasized that the removal of the monarch was carried out in strict compliance with the provisions of the Osun State Chief Law and relevant statutes governing the conduct and administration of traditional institutions.

Although the government did not explicitly state the grounds for the deposition, it is believed to be connected to Oloyed's past legal troubles, including a conviction in a U.S. court for involvement in a scheme related to identity theft and financial fraud. His reign had already been controversial, raising questions about his suitability for the stool and attracting criticism from stakeholders within and outside Ipetumodu.