Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has approved the deposition of Oba Joseph Oloyede as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area. This action follows the monarch's conviction in the United States on charges of tax fraud and money laundering.
Governor's Decision Based on Ohio Court Judgment
The governor's decision came after receiving the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment from an Ohio court. The Osun State Executive Council had previously resolved to request the CTC from the Ohio court to ensure the government's action was based on official documents rather than social media reports. This resolution was passed last year, with the Council emphasizing that governmental decisions should not rely solely on unverified online information.
Deposition Order Details
The Deposition Order, signed by Governor Adeleke on May 7, 2026, stated that the action was necessary to maintain peace, order, and good governance, as well as to preserve the honor and integrity of the royal stool. The order further noted that the fraudulent conduct of Oba Joseph Oloyede, as found by the US court—and to which he pleaded guilty—along with his public trial and conviction, had brought the institution of Obaship and the stool of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu into disrepute and public odium. Consequently, the deposition was deemed necessary.
Details of the US Conviction
Oba Joseph Oloyede was sentenced to 56 months in prison on August 26, 2025, by the United States District Court in the Northern District of Ohio. The charges included wire fraud, making false tax returns, and engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. His conviction and sentencing followed a guilty plea.
Stool Declared Vacant
As a result of this deposition, the stool of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu has been declared vacant. The necessary processes will be initiated to appoint a new Apetumodu at the appropriate time. Governor Adeleke has appealed to the sons and daughters of Ipetumodu to remain peaceful and law-abiding while the selection process for a new king is underway.
