The Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Chief Jacob Adefabi Sobaloju, following allegations of contravening the state’s mining regulations and encouraging unauthorised activities on government-protected land.
The suspension, announced on Monday, was linked to alleged violations of Executive Order 001/2023, the legal framework guiding mining operations in Oyo State, as well as accusations of facilitating trespass on gazetted government assets, particularly forest reserves.
A letter conveying the decision, signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Olajire A.M., accused the monarch of issuing consent letters to mining companies without due authorisation from the state government.
The letter further alleged that such actions enabled mining activities within state-owned forest reserves and supported unauthorised mining operations.
According to the government, Chief Sobaloju has been barred from the palace of the Onitọ of Ito with effect from Monday, January 5, 2026, pending the outcome of investigations into the allegations.
Officials described the suspension as a precautionary step to prevent interference and ensure a fair and transparent investigative process.
The letter, titled “Re: Complaint Against Chief Sobaloju of Ofiki for Violation of State Executive Order, Forest Reserve Regulations and Encouraging Trespassing on Government Gazetted Assets,” stated that the accusations against the traditional ruler include breaches of mining laws, forest reserve regulations, and actions capable of undermining the state’s control over its protected assets.
As part of the conditions attached to the suspension, the monarch was instructed to immediately cease all involvement in mining-related matters, including issuing consent letters to miners. He was also directed to avoid any action that could obstruct the investigation and to present himself to the investigative panel whenever summoned.
The state government reiterated its resolve to enforce mining regulations strictly, stressing that no individual or institution is above the law. The administration has in recent months intensified efforts to curb illegal mining, citing its adverse impact on the environment, community safety and government revenue.