The Council of Traditional Chiefs in Ipetumodu and the Ipetumodu Progressive Union (IPU) have dismissed recent media reports suggesting unrest in the town, describing them as false and misleading fabrications by a small group of disgruntled individuals.
In a statement signed by the IPU President, Dr. Israel Akinjogbin, the traditional leaders and community stakeholders expressed their disappointment and embarrassment over what they termed a sponsored smear campaign against the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba (Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun I.
The IPU categorically stated that Ipetumodu remains peaceful and stable, contrary to claims of tension and discontent. According to Dr. Akinjogbin, the town’s youths and elders continue to rally behind their monarch, acknowledging his efforts to promote socio-economic development and preserve the town’s cultural heritage.
“It is unfortunate that while the majority of the town has moved forward, a few individuals remain bent on spreading falsehoods to discredit the Kabiyesi. Their aim is clear: to undermine his leadership by sowing seeds of discord,” the statement read.
Refuting allegations that the Apetumodu has been incommunicado, the IPU emphasized that Oba Oloyede regularly consults with the elders and traditional chiefs, holding weekly meetings with them.
The monarch also maintains direct engagement with residents. For instance, during the Annual Prayer organized by the Ipetumodu Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on January 11, 2025, he participated in an interactive Zoom session, where he prayed for the community and addressed various concerns.
The report alleging that traditional chiefs have boycotted the palace was also dismissed as false. The statement clarified that apart from: The Oosa of Ipetumodu, who recently passed away after a long illness and The Iyalode, who has been unwell, all other chiefs regularly attend their weekly meetings at the Chiefs’ Hall within the palace.
Addressing concerns over the demolition of the old palace, the IPU explained that the decision was made in 2021 with full community backing. The existing palace structure was deemed too dilapidated for renovation, prompting plans for a modern and befitting palace for Ipetumodu.
According to the statement, construction is progressing steadily, with Phases 1 and 2 already underway. The community remains enthusiastic and supportive of the project, despite the refusal of detractors to acknowledge its progress.
The IPU also refuted claims that traditional festivals in Ipetumodu have suffered setbacks under the reign of the current Oba. On the contrary, the annual cultural events have grown in strength and participation, attracting visitors from far and wide.
The IPU urged residents and the public to disregard the negative media reports, emphasizing that those responsible for the misinformation are driven by personal interests rather than genuine concern for Ipetumodu’s welfare.
“For us, the collective interest of Ipetumodu remains our top priority. We will continue to support peace, development, and unity under the leadership of our monarch, His Royal Highness, Oba (Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun I,” the statement concluded.
Here IS THE COMPLETE PRESS RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE
NO TENSION IN IPETUMODU, SAY TRADITIONAL CHIEFS AND IPETUMODU PROGRESSIVE UNION (IPU)
The Council of Traditional Chiefs in Ipetumodu, Ipetumodu Progressive Union (IPU), and the entire sons and daughters of the ancient town express deep surprise and embarrassment at recent sponsored publications in both conventional and social media platforms.
These misleading reports were orchestrated by a few unknown disgruntled individuals whose primary aim is to ridicule and denigrate the esteemed personality of His Royal Highness, the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba (Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun I.
Initially, we considered ignoring these publications as mere rantings of discontented individuals. However, upon further reflection, we deem it necessary to set the record straight and prevent falsehoods from being mistaken for truth.
- Succession and Reconciliation in Ipetumodu
It is common in many communities for succession contests to generate heated rivalries following the demise of a reigning monarch. However, in progressive societies, once a new Oba is selected, approved, and crowned, it is customary for all contestants and their supporters to rally behind the new king for the collective progress of the town.
In Ipetumodu, all but a very small group of co-contestants have accepted the outcome and moved on with their lives, supporting Oba Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede in his notable developmental strides. Unfortunately, a few individuals remain unreconciled and unrelenting, refusing to accept the decision of the kingmakers despite the Oba’s conscious efforts toward genuine reconciliation.
- Persistent Attacks on the Oba
More than four years after his coronation, these disgruntled individuals, like the proverbial punch-drunk boxer, have continued their aimless and baseless attacks against Kabiyesi.
In their desperation, they fail to realize that in attempting to discredit an individual, they also undermine the sacred institution of the monarchy and the entire community that willingly chose him as their king.
Therefore, we have decided to systematically refute their false claims as they relate to Ipetumodu as a whole.
Addressing Specific Falsehoods
- The Apetumodu’s Communication with the Community
Claims that the Apetumodu has been incommunicado are outright false. Kabiyesi has maintained regular communication with the elders and key stakeholders in the town, particularly through the Council of Traditional Chiefs, which holds weekly meetings at the palace.
Furthermore, during the Annual Prayer organized by the Ipetumodu Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on January 11, 2025, Kabiyesi engaged in an interactive Zoom session with residents, offering prayers and addressing community concerns. He also provided updates on his absence and plans for the town’s continued progress.
- No Tension in Ipetumodu
There is no tension of any kind in Ipetumodu. The town remains peaceful and stable, with no agitation among its citizens, including the youths who deeply respect and support their Oba. The false claims of unrest are mere fabrications aimed at stirring unnecessary discord.
- Traditional Chiefs’ Alleged Boycott of the Palace
The assertion that traditional chiefs have stopped visiting the palace is a blatant lie.
With the exception of:
The Oosa of Ipetumodu, who recently passed away after a prolonged illness.
The Iyalode, who has been unwell for some time.
All other chiefs attend the weekly council meetings at the Chiefs’ Hall in the palace. The deliberate spread of misinformation regarding their absence is simply another attempt to create artificial controversy.
- Palace Demolition and Reconstruction
The renovation of the palace was a well-intended and community-supported initiative undertaken by the Apetumodu. The old and dilapidated palace structures were beyond repair, necessitating complete demolition to pave the way for a modern, befitting edifice for Ipetumodu.
Since 2021, Phases 1 and 2 of the new palace construction have been ongoing with widespread community and traditional council backing. The detractors, blinded by envy, refuse to acknowledge this undeniable progress.
- Traditional Festivals in Ipetumodu
All annual traditional festivals in Ipetumodu have continued to flourish without setbacks. Instead, these celebrations have grown stronger, attracting increased participation from both locals and tourists.
The idea that cultural activities are declining under the Apetumodu’s reign is false and baseless.
Conclusion
We urge the public to ignore the negative publications and divisive rhetoric coming from these disgruntled individuals. Their self-serving agenda should not be mistaken for genuine concern for Ipetumodu.
For us, the collective interest of our beloved town is paramount. We will continue to support peace, development, and unity under the leadership of His Royal Highness, Oba (Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun I.
SIGNED:
Dr. Israel Akinjogbin
President, Ipetumodu Progressive Union (IPU)
