The Oyo State Government has officially suspended Chief Jacob Adefabi Sobaloju, the Sobaloju of Ofiki in Atisbo Local Government Area, following allegations of his involvement in illegal mining activities and the violation of state environmental laws.
The suspension, which took effect on Monday, January 5, 2026, was communicated through a formal letter from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. The government stated that the decision was a necessary precautionary measure to protect the public interest and safeguard state assets, particularly protected forest reserves.
According to a statement released by the Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Print Media, Moses Alao, the monarch is accused of violating Executive Order 001/2023. This order was specifically established by the current administration to regulate mineral extraction and prevent the unauthorised exploitation of natural resources within the state.
Official correspondence signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Olajire A.M., detailed several specific allegations against the traditional ruler. These include the unauthorised issuance of consent letters to mining companies and the facilitation of mining operations within government-gazetted forest reserves.
The government further alleged that Chief Sobaloju encouraged trespassing on state-owned assets, a move described as a breach of the regulations governing traditional leadership and land use. The Ministry emphasised that these actions directly undermined the state’s efforts to ensure sustainable and lawful mining practices.
"I am directed to inform you that you have been accused of violating the State Executive Order 001/2023, which governs mining activities in Oyo State, and of encouraging trespassing on government gazetted assets," the letter stated. The document further clarified that the suspension is intended to ensure the "integrity and credibility" of the ongoing investigation.
Pending the conclusion of the probe, Chief Sobaloju has been ordered to vacate the palace of the Onitọ of Ito. He has also been directed to cease all mining-related activities, including the issuance of any further consent documents, and to refrain from interfering with the investigative process.
The state government has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward illegal mining, warning that no individual, regardless of their status or traditional office, is above the law. This crackdown follows increased security and environmental concerns linked to unregulated mining sites across the Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa regions of the state.
The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters has instructed the embattled chief to make himself available for questioning by the investigating team as required. As of the time of reporting, Chief Sobaloju has not issued a public response to the allegations levelled against him.
