Osun Community Moves to Replace Monarch Jailed in US Over Fraud
There is growing pressure in Ipetumodu, Osun State, to fill the vacant Apetu stool following the conviction and imprisonment of the traditional ruler, Oba Joseph Oloyede, in the United States.
The monarch was sentenced in August 2025 by a U.S. court to about 56 months in prison after being found guilty of fraud linked to COVID-19 relief funds. He was also ordered to pay over $4.4 million in restitution and forfeit assets tied to the crime.
In response to the development, the two recognised ruling houses in the community have obtained the Certified True Copy of the U.S. court judgment to formally present to the Osun State Government.
Representatives of the ruling families say the move is aimed at enabling the state authorities to take necessary action on the throne, which has effectively remained vacant since the monarch’s conviction.
The families revealed that they have suspended earlier plans to protest and are instead seeking dialogue with Governor Ademola Adeleke on the way forward regarding the traditional institution.
The conviction has sparked agitation within the community, with many stakeholders insisting that a new monarch should be installed to preserve the dignity and continuity of the ancient stool.
