BREAKING: Oyo Govt Suspends Traditional Ruler Over Illegal Mining

By Ademola Adekusibe
January 6, 2025

The Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Oba Jacob Adefabi, in Atisbo Local Government Area, over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities within the community.

The suspension was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by Moses Alao, Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media. According to the statement, the monarch allegedly violated the state’s Executive Order 001/2023, which regulates mining activities across Oyo State, and was also accused of encouraging trespass on government-gazetted assets.

The government alleged that Oba Adefabi issued consent letters to mining companies without proper authorization, thereby permitting mining operations within a state-reserved forest. He was further accused of facilitating unauthorized mining activities contrary to existing laws.

The statement noted that the action was taken in the interest of public safety, environmental protection, and the preservation of government assets.

A separate letter signed by A.M. Olajire, Director of Chieftaincy Matters at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, confirmed that the suspension takes effect from January 5, 2026. The letter stated that the monarch has been barred from the palace of the Onitọ of Ito pending the conclusion of investigations into the allegations.

The government described the suspension as a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the integrity and transparency of the ongoing investigation.

Oba Adefabi has been directed to refrain from all activities related to mining, avoid interfering with the investigation, and make himself available to the investigative panel when required.

The Oyo State Government reiterated its commitment to enforcing mining regulations and curbing illegal exploitation of natural resources across the state.