The Osun State Government has removed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, from his position with immediate effect.
The decision was announced on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi. He stated that the government decided to sack the monarch after a legal review and a meeting with the State Executive Council.
The government has also declared the throne vacant and withdrawn the staff of office from the deposed king.
Oba Oloyede was sentenced to four years in prison by a court in the United States in August 2025. He was convicted for his role in a scam involving COVID-19 emergency loans meant for small businesses.
According to US officials, the former monarch was part of a group that stole millions of dollars from the relief fund. He was ordered to pay back more than $4.4 million and lose his house in Ohio, which he reportedly bought with the stolen money.
The state government explained that the removal was carried out in accordance with the laws governing traditional rulers in Osun State.
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