Residents Concerned Over Monarch’s Whereabouts
The Apetu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, has not been seen in his community since March 2024, raising concerns among residents and community leaders.
Many are now calling on Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to investigate his sudden disappearance.
Oba Oloyede, an accountant and information systems expert based in the United States, was installed as the Apetu in July 2019, following the passing of Oba James Adegoke in 2017.
Since then, he frequently traveled between Nigeria and the US. However, his prolonged absence has sparked speculation, with some believing he is recuperating abroad, while others suspect he is facing fraud charges in the US.
Community Leaders Express Concern
A senior chief in Ipetumodu, speaking anonymously, revealed that the king has missed several major community events.
In December 2024, reports suggested that Oba Oloyede would return by January, but as of February 2025, he remains absent.
“It’s been almost a year since we last saw our king. Even during our recent Christian annual prayer, he only appeared on a projector screen. His face was not visible, but he assured us he wasn’t in prison and would return soon.”
The chief also disclosed that before his disappearance, the monarch demolished the historic royal palace, promising to rebuild it.
However, construction has stalled, leaving the town without a functional palace.
Allegations of Fraud in the US
Investigations suggest that a 61-year-old Joseph Oloyede was indicted in the US in 2024 alongside Edward Oluwasanmi for allegedly defrauding the government of $4.2 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
The US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio stated that the suspects used fake business applications to obtain loans under false pretenses.
Oloyede allegedly obtained $1.3 million for himself, using some of the funds for personal expenses and home renovations. Both men were later released on $20,000 bonds.
Is the Monarch Facing Trial?
While some believe that the indicted individual is the same Oba Oloyede, others argue that there is no official confirmation since his middle name “Olugbenga” does not appear in the US court documents.
However, investigations reveal that the king’s LinkedIn profile lists him as a tax consultant in Greater Cleveland, matching details from the fraud case.
Additionally, he has been linked to “Available Tax Services”, the same company mentioned in the indictment.
Monarch’s Response
In a virtual address during a New Year prayer, Oba Oloyede dismissed the allegations, accusing his enemies of spreading falsehoods.
“Some people don’t want my community to progress. Lies are being told about me. I am not in prison, and I am not on my deathbed.”
When contacted for comments, the monarch declined to directly address the US fraud charges, stating that he was simply “taking a break”.
What’s Next for Ipetumodu?
With the monarch absent for nearly a year, residents are left in uncertainty. Some are calling for his replacement, while others await his promised return.
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