By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Ademola Adeleke has approved the deposition of Oba Joseph Oloyede as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government, Osun State. Adeleke announced the decision on Monday after receiving a Certified True Copy of a United States court judgment. The monarch lost his throne following his conviction for tax fraud and money laundering in Ohio, USA. The Osun State Government said the action aims to protect the integrity of the traditional institution and maintain public order.
Why Adeleke Removed Oba Oloyede
According to the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the Osun State Executive Council reviewed the court judgment before recommending the monarch’s removal.
Rasheed explained that the council requested the Certified True Copy from the Ohio court last year. The government wanted verified legal documents before taking action.
He stated that government decisions should not rely on social media reports alone.
Government Explains Deposition Order
The statement revealed that Adeleke signed the Deposition Order on May 7, 2026.
According to the government, the decision became necessary to maintain peace, order, and good governance in the community.
Officials also argued that the monarch’s conviction damaged the reputation of the Apetumodu stool and the traditional institution.
“The fraudulent conduct of Oba Joseph Oloyede and his conviction in the United States brought the royal stool into disrepute,” the statement noted.
Details of the US Conviction
A United States District Court in Northern Ohio sentenced Oba Oloyede on August 26, 2025.
The court handed him a 56-month prison sentence after finding him guilty of wire fraud, filing false tax returns, and conducting financial transactions involving criminal proceeds.
The conviction reportedly triggered concerns within the Osun State Government and the traditional council.
Stool Declared Vacant
Following the deposition, the Osun State Government declared the Apetumodu stool vacant.
Authorities confirmed that the process to appoint a new traditional ruler will begin at the appropriate time.
Meanwhile, Adeleke urged residents and indigenes of Ipetumodu to remain peaceful throughout the transition process.
