Osun suspends traditional chiefs over misconduct, illegal wealth

A traditional ruler in Osun State, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi, Odugbemi I, Olufi of Gbongan, has officially announced the indefinite suspension of three chiefs, who occupy different positions within the Gbongan Chieftaincy hierarchy.

The declaration was made during a press briefing yesterday at his palace. Other chiefs and citizens of the town were also in attendance.

The two affected Baales and a minor chief were accused of offences, including gross misconduct, selfish amassing of wealth, disloyalty, actions capable of dividing the town and insubordination to the monarch, among others.

They are Chief Kazeem Adekunle Afolabi, Onipetu of Gbongan; Baale Rufai Lawal of Olubula Community, Gbongan; and Baale Samson Oyegunle Odekunmi of Sewe Community Gbongan.

A statement by the monarch said: “The decision to suspend Chief Kazeem Adekunle Afolabi, Onpetu of Gbongan, stemmed from his blatant insubordination and disregard for the esteemed office of the Olufi of Gbongan and the entire chieftaincy institution.

“His divisive actions, aimed at destabilising the unity of Gbongan and his attempt to distort traditional council chieftaincy procedures, were reasons for his suspension. Additionally, his failure to attend mandatory fortnight meetings since 2019 further compounded his misconduct.

“Baale Rufai Lawal of Olubula Community faced suspension due to his flagrant disregard for the established rulership of the community. His appropriation of wealth and benefits to himself, neglecting entitled stakeholders, and his support for actions aimed at dismembering Gbongan, were deemed as actions detrimental to the community’s harmony.

“Similarly, Baale Samson Oyegunle Odekunmi of Sewe Community faced suspension for his gross abuse of power and divisive actions. His conduct was described as incompatible with the traditional responsibilities expected of a Baale, posing a threat to the peaceful coexistence of the Sewe Community and Gbongan at large.”

Oba Oyeniyi emphasised the importance of publicising the suspensions to ensure that all citizens, both at home and in the diaspora, are aware of the actions of the affected chiefs.

He condemned their efforts at allegedly undermining the progress and unity of Gbongan, reaffirming the town’s commitment to growth and development.

“My advice to the residents is to remain focused. We should continue with the peace we have been enjoying,” Oba Oyeniyi said.

Corroborating the monarch’s claims, a Chief in the town, Saka Kola Owogbade, expressed concerns over the actions of the suspended Onipetu of Gbongan.

He said: “We have a minor chief, the Onipetu of Gbongan, who has chosen to agitate for a crown that is not rightfully his, aligning himself with the Onipetu of Ijero in Ogbomoso. Due to this action, they have been suspended. We want the whole world to know of their suspension.”

Another stakeholder in Gbongan, High Chief Olabamiji Adisa also expressed disappointment in certain individuals within the chieftaincy hierarchy.

He said: “It is regrettable that certain individuals within our chieftaincy hierarchy have chosen to pursue personal interests over the well-being of our community. We stand united in upholding the values of our tradition and ensuring that justice prevails.”

Efforts to get the reactions of the suspended chiefs were not successful at press time.