Oyo chief suspended for alleged illegal mining and trespassing
The Oyo State Government has suspended Chief Jacob Adefabi Sobaloju, the Sobaloju of Ofiki, over alleged violations of state regulations. He is accused of encouraging trespassing on government assets and issuing unauthorised consent letters to mining companies. The suspension is described as a precautionary measure to protect the state's interests. The government has instructed him to refrain from all mining-related activities and cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
What we know
- Chief Jacob Adefabi Sobaloju was suspended for allegedly violating Executive Order 001/2023 and encouraging trespassing on government gazetted assets.
- The suspension letter was signed by Olajire A.M., Director of Chieftaincy Matters, and announced by Moses Alao, Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde.
- The government accused him of issuing consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation and permitting unauthorised mining in reserved forests.
- The suspension from the Palace of the Onito of Ito is effective Monday, January 5, 2026, pending the outcome of the investigation.
- He has been directed to avoid all mining-related activities and to cooperate fully with investigators.
