Africa-Press – Nigeria. Tension is mounting in Ipetumodu, the headquarters of Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State, following the mysterious disappearance of sacred regalia belonging to the Apetu stool, barely two weeks after its occupant, Oba Joseph Oloyede, was sentenced to prison in the United States for COVID-19 fraud.
The missing artefacts include the revered Aare crown and a collection of ancient royal beads, symbols that embody centuries of Ipetumodu’s royal heritage.
Sources within the community allege that aides and close associates of the embattled monarch were involved in the evacuation of the regalia from his private residence, which has served as the temporary palace since the demolition of the original royal court.
A respected chieftain from one of the ruling houses expressed deep concern about the implications for the town’s future.
“The crown is gone, and those behind its disappearance may not understand the consequences. Without the crown and beads, the enthronement of a new monarch could be plunged into crisis.
“More importantly, they risk provoking the wrath of the deities that guard this community,” he warned, urging those responsible to return the items before “it becomes too late.”
The development comes on the heels of Oba Oloyede’s conviction in the United States. The monarch, who holds dual Nigerian and American citizenship, was arrested in May 2025 alongside Pastor Edward Oluwasanmi.
DAILY POST recalls that earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko sentenced Oloyede to 56 months in prison for his role in a $4.2 million COVID-19 relief fraud scheme.
Community elders fear that the twin crises, the monarch’s imprisonment abroad and the disappearance of sacred regalia at home, could leave Ipetumodu in a spiritual and cultural dilemma, particularly in succession matters.
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