FLASH: Oyo Govt Suspends Traditional Ruler Over Alleged Illegal Mining

The Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Chief Jacob Sobaloju, over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities and violations of the State’s Executive Order 001/2023, which regulates mining operations across the state.

The suspension, according to the government, is aimed at protecting the interests of Oyo State and safeguarding its gazetted assets.

In a letter issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Olajire A.M., Chief Sobaloju was accused of breaching the executive order and forest reserve regulations by allegedly issuing consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation.

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The letter further alleged that the traditional ruler permitted mining activities within State Government reserved forests and facilitated unauthorised mining operations, actions said to contravene existing laws and regulations.

According to the ministry, Chief Sobaloju has been suspended from the palace of the Onito of Ito with effect from Monday, January 5, 2026, pending the conclusion of investigations into the allegations. The suspension was described as a precautionary measure to ensure the integrity and smooth conduct of the investigation.

The letter, titled “Re: Complaint against Chief Sobaloju of Ofiki for violation of State Executive Order, Forest Reserve Regulations and encouraging trespassing of government gazetted assets,” stated that the embattled chief was accused of violating Executive Order 001/2023 and encouraging trespass on government-owned assets.

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It also directed Chief Sobaloju to immediately desist from all activities related to mining, including the issuance of consent letters to miners, refrain from interfering with the ongoing investigation, and make himself available to the investigating team whenever required.

The Oyo State Government reiterated its zero tolerance for illegal mining and related activities, warning that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

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