Once Revered, Jailed Oba Oloyede Suffers Final Humiliation

For the disgraced and jailed monarch, Oba Gbenga Oloyede, the walls appear to be closing in from every direction. Just when many thought prison time in the United States was punishment enough, another crushing blow has landed — this time from home.

In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves across Osun State and beyond, the State Government has officially deposed him as the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, stripping him of the throne he once occupied with splendour, influence and regal authority.

If the embattled royal figure had entertained hopes of returning to Nigeria after serving his sentence abroad to reclaim his stool, such dreams have now been shattered.

The decision, announced recently, marked the final unravelling of a reign now remembered more for scandal than sovereignty.

Oba Oloyede is currently serving a four-year prison sentence in the United States following his conviction over COVID-19 fraud-related offences. According to the state government, his removal was carried out in accordance with the Osun State Chiefs Law and other extant regulations governing traditional institutions.

But beyond the legal language lies a deeper symbolism: a king has fallen.

The government did not stop at mere deposition. All instruments of office earlier bestowed on him, including the sacred staff of office — the ultimate symbol of traditional authority — have been withdrawn with immediate effect.

With that singular act, the reign of Oloyede was ceremoniously brought to an end.

The stool of the Apetumodu has now been declared vacant, setting the stage for the emergence of a new monarch who will inherit a throne bruised by controversy.