The crisis in Ogbomosoland has taken a dramatic turn as a former lawmaker, Senator Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun, resigned from his position as the Mayegun of Ogbomosoland, citing concerns over leadership style, rising tension, and alleged divisive actions within the ancient town.
Adeseun’s resignation comes weeks after the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, in a letter dated March 23, 2026, and signed by the Palace Secretary, Toyin Ajamu, announced his indefinite suspension from the chieftaincy title over alleged acts of insubordination and disrespect to the palace.
However, in a separate letter addressed to the monarch, Adeseun declared that his resignation takes immediate effect, noting that the decision had been under consideration since the early months of the king’s ascension to the throne.
He explained that he initially delayed stepping down out of respect for the institution of the Sounship and in honour of the late Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, who conferred the title on him about five years ago in recognition of his contributions to the development of Ogbomosoland.
The former Mayegun said recent developments and what he described as the monarch’s actions compelled him to formally disengage from the palace.
Speaking further at a press conference, Adeseun raised alarm over what he described as a growing leadership crisis in Ogbomoso, alleging that the monarch’s style of leadership has undermined the long-standing peace and unity the town is known for.
He described Ogbomoso as historically accommodating and tolerant, warning that its legacy of peaceful coexistence among religious and cultural groups is now under threat.
Adeseun accused the monarch of engaging in supremacy disputes with other traditional rulers in Ogbomosoland, including the Olugbon of Orile Igbon and the Onpetu of Ijeru, despite their established autonomy.
He also alleged interference in religious matters, particularly the leadership tussle involving the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso.
According to him, attempts to remove the Chief Imam and exert control over the Ogbomoso Central Mosque heightened tension within the Muslim community.
The former senator further claimed that notable bodies, including the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Christian Association of Nigeria, had intervened in the dispute without resolution.
Adeseun also accused the monarch of targeting community-based organisations and respected individuals, including socio-cultural groups such as Ogbomoso Parapo Worldwide, whose leadership he said the monarch attempted to dissolve before the courts intervened.
He cited alleged harassment and intimidation of prominent figures, including Dr. Saka Adegbite Balogun and Alhaji Monsur Ayoade Ejide, as well as incidents involving market leaders and grassroots associations who were reportedly subjected to humiliation at the palace.
According to him, such actions have disrupted the long-standing harmony in the town and are not in line with the aspirations of the people.
“In these circumstances, I cannot in good conscience continue to operate as a Chief under your leadership,” Adeseun said.
Highlighting his contributions to the development of Ogbomoso, the former lawmaker listed several projects he facilitated, including the establishment of the National Biotechnology Development Agency centre in Onipanu and the Federal Polytechnic Ayede.
He called on the Oyo State Government and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene to restore peace in the town, warning that continued unrest could pose wider security risks.
Despite his resignation, Adeseun reaffirmed his commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Ogbomosoland, urging all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and allow peace to reign.
