The Osun State Government has deposed Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu with immediate effect.
The announcement was made 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 consultations, legal review and approval by the State Executive Council, in line with provisions of the Osun State Chiefs Law, as amended, and other regulations guiding traditional institutions.
According to the government, the monarch was convicted in the United States over offences related 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 statement read.
The government added that all instruments of authority previously issued to the monarch, including the staff of office, have been withdrawn, while the stool of the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu has been declared vacant pending further succession processes.
It noted that security agencies had been directed to maintain peace and order in the community, while residents, kingmakers and stakeholders were urged to remain calm and law-abiding.
Ipetumodu is the headquarters of Ife North Local Government Area, and Oba Oloyede was sentenced by a US court in 2025 over COVID-19-related fraud.