Pressure is mounting on Ademola Adeleke to resolve the growing leadership vacuum surrounding the Apetu stool in Ipetumodu, Osun State.
Community leaders warn that the absence of a traditional ruler is beginning to destabilize governance, cultural practices, and territorial coordination in the town. Representatives from the Aribile and Fagbemokun ruling houses made their concerns public during a press briefing on Thursday.
They are calling on the state government to officially declare the stool vacant and begin the selection of a new monarch within seven days.
At the heart of the issue is the continued recognition of Oba Joseph Oloyede, who is currently serving a prison sentence in the United States following a fraud conviction tied to pandemic-era financial schemes.
According to U.S. authorities, “the scheme involved exploiting emergency loan programmes intended to support small businesses during the pandemic.”
Despite court rulings, asset forfeitures, and a multi-year sentence, local stakeholders say the delay in removing the monarch has created uncertainty.
Prince Dele Oyebade stated that “all required legal documentation, including the Certified True Copy of the judgment, had been submitted to the state government.” He added, “The documents have been made available, yet no action has followed. This delay is causing avoidable tension within the community.”
The situation is already affecting daily life. Prince Olaboye Ayoola warned, “We are giving the government seven days to respond. The town cannot continue without leadership, as this situation is already affecting our land and traditions.”
Traditional authorities are now urging swift action, including interim leadership measures, to restore order and allow the selection process to proceed.
