The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup Ajimoko III, has stripped High Chief Busuyi Gbadamosi of his title as Oba-Odo of Ilesa over the alleged theft of two community-owned transformers
In a statement personally signed by the monarch and released on Saturday, September 27, 2025, Oba Ajimoko said the decision followed Gbadamosi’s refusal to return a 300KVA and 500KVA transformer despite several ultimatums from the palace and a resolution by the Committee on Chieftaincy Disputes and Sundry Matters.
The monarch explained that the transformers were removed 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 also rebuked Gbadamosi and demanded their return.
Community leaders, including the Iyaloja of Atakumosa Market, Chief Mrs. Awe, and the Araromi Youth Leader, testified before the committee that the chief removed the transformers at night and later attempted to bribe them into concealing the matter.
During questioning, Gbadamosi allegedly admitted to selling the 300KVA transformer for ₦120,000 and using the proceeds to transport the second transformer to Ibadan for repairs. He was given 30 days to recover both items but failed to comply. An additional seven-day grace period also elapsed without results.
“Chief Busuyi Gbadamosi shall henceforth cease to be referred to as Oba-Odo of Ilesa,” the monarch 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.”
Oba Ajimoko stressed that the decision was taken “to preserve the culture and tradition of Ijesaland” and to serve as a deterrent against acts unbecoming of a high chief.
Meanwhile, Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed that Gbadamosi has been arrested in connection with the missing transformers and is currently under investigation.
