The Council of Traditional Chiefs and Ipetumodu Progressive Union in Osun State, Nigeria, have denied reports of tension in Ipetumodu, calling them “sponsored publications” aimed at ridiculing the town’s monarch, Oba Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede.¹
According to Dr. Israel Akinjogbin, President of Ipetumodu Progressive Union, these publications are the work of disgruntled individuals who lost out in the succession process. Despite efforts by Oba Oloyede to reconcile with them, they continue to spread falsehoods about the town and its monarch.
The council and union have addressed specific claims made in these publications, including:
- The Apetumodu’s Availability: Oba Oloyede has been communicating regularly with elders and stakeholders, and even held an interactive session with residents via Zoom.
- No Tension: Ipetumodu is peaceful, with no agitation among citizens, including youths who support their monarch.
- Council of Chiefs: Traditional Chiefs regularly attend meetings at the Palace, contrary to claims they refused to go.
- Palace Demolition: The demolition was part of a larger effort to build a modern Palace, supported by the community and Traditional Chiefs.
- Traditional Festivals: Annual festivals have continued uninterrupted, with massive participation from locals and tourists.
The council and union urge everyone to ignore these negative publications, which serve only the personal interests of disgruntled individuals.
SIGNED
Dr Israel Akinjogbin, President, Ipetumodu Progressive Union (IPU)