Covid-19 fraud: Osun govt vows to address succession crisis after jailing of traditional ruler

The Osun State Government has pledged to take action regarding the situation involving the jailed Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Oloyede.

This decision follows a directive issued to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to respond to the unfolding circumstances.

In a statement released after a recent state executive council meeting, Kola po Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, highlighted the government’s position.

Oba Oloyede was sentenced in the United States for his role in a COVID-19 fraud scheme, receiving a prison term followed by three years of supervised release and a restitution order amounting to $4,408,543.38.

As reported by the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio, Oba Oloyede led a conspiracy aimed at taking advantage of COVID-19 emergency loan programs designed to assist struggling businesses.

The Osun State Government has stated that it requires a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before it can proceed with any actions.

The fallout from the monarch’s conviction has plunged Ipetumodu into a leadership crisis, as kingmakers have hesitated to declare a vacancy for the Apetumodu position.

The princes of the town have stressed that the responsibility for appointing Oba Oloyede’s successor lies with the state government.

Moreover, unsettling reports have emerged about missing royal paraphernalia from the private residence of the jailed traditional ruler. Sources warn that the absence of these important items could have dire consequences for the community.

Source: DAILY POST