Former Osun Monarch Joseph Oloyede Sues Adeleke, Seeks to Block Appointment of Successor
Former Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Oloyede, has approached the Osun State High Court to challenge his removal from the traditional throne and prevent the state government from appointing another person to occupy the position.
Oloyede, who is currently serving a prison sentence in the United States for his involvement in a multimillion-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud, instituted the legal action against Governor Ademola Adeleke and other parties.
The monarch is seeking an interlocutory injunction that would prevent the governor, government officials and their representatives from taking steps to appoint a successor while the court determines the case. The application also seeks to stop any move to fill the Apetumodu stool until the substantive suit is resolved.
The legal challenge comes months after the Osun State Government announced that the traditional stool had become vacant and removed Oloyede from office. The decision was reportedly taken in March 2026, following his conviction and imprisonment in the United States.
In his court filing, dated September 16, 2026, Oloyede disputed the legality of the government's action. He maintained that his removal was not supported by a lawful process and questioned the authority behind the instrument reportedly signed by Governor Adeleke on May 7, 2026.
The former monarch is therefore asking the court to determine whether the state government's decision to depose him was legally justified.
Oloyede's legal troubles in the United States date back to investigations into fraudulent claims involving COVID-19 financial assistance programmes. He was accused of obtaining millions of dollars in relief funds through fraudulent applications submitted to the US government.
Following the investigation and subsequent prosecution, a US federal court sentenced him in August 2025 to 56 months in prison on two counts of the indictment. He also received additional sentences on related charges.
Beyond his prison term, the court ordered him to pay restitution exceeding $4.4 million, imposed a $400 special assessment and directed the forfeiture of assets connected to the fraudulent scheme. He is also expected to undergo three years of supervised release after completing his imprisonment.
Despite his incarceration, Oloyede's latest court action signals his determination to contest the circumstances surrounding his removal and the proposed appointment of another traditional ruler in Ipetumodu.
The outcome of the case could determine whether the Osun State Government can proceed with installing a new Apetumodu while the former monarch continues his legal challenge
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