The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup Ajimoko III, has stripped High Chief Busuyi Gbadamosi of his title as the Oba-Odo of Ilesa following allegations of theft involving two community-owned transformers.
In a statement personally signed by the monarch and released on Saturday, September 27, 2025, the decision was reached after Gbadamosi repeatedly failed to return the missing transformers despite several ultimatums from the palace and a resolution by the Committee on Chieftaincy Disputes and Sundry Matters.
The transformers—a 300KVA and a 500KVA—were reportedly taken in 2023 from their installation points at the Post Office in Atakumosa Market during the reign of the late Owa Obokun, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, who had earlier rebuked Chief Gbadamosi and ordered their return.
Community leaders, including the Iyaloja of Atakumosa Market, Chief Mrs. Awe, and the Youth Leader of Araromi Community, testified before the committee that Gbadamosi allegedly removed the transformers at night and attempted to bribe them into silence.
During questioning, Gbadamosi reportedly confessed to selling the 300KVA transformer for ₦120,000, claiming the proceeds were used to transport the second transformer to Ibadan for repairs.
The committee initially gave him 30 days to retrieve and return both transformers. When he failed to comply, the monarch granted him an additional seven days, but he still defaulted. Consequently, Oba Ajimoko ordered his removal.
“Chief Busuyi Gbadamosi shall henceforth cease to be referred to as Oba-Odo of Ilesa,” the Owa Obokun declared. “He should immediately vacate the chieftaincy house, which shall remain under lock and key. Members of the public are hereby informed not to address or deal with Mr. Busuyi Gbadamosi as the Oba-Odo of Ilesa.”
The monarch emphasized that the decision was necessary “to preserve the culture and tradition of Ijesaland” and to serve as a deterrent against misconduct among high chiefs.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed Gbadamosi’s arrest in connection with the missing transformers, adding that investigations are ongoing.