Oyo Monarch Dismisses Chief Over Alleged Insubordination and Extortion
The Sabiganna of Iganna Kingdom in Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State, Oba Azeez Soliu Oyemonla, has dismissed Mallam Memudu, a chief in the community, over allegations of insubordination, extortion, and actions that could undermine the region’s peace.
Oba Oyemonla reported the matter to the Iganna Police Area Command, accusing Memudu of falsely presenting himself as Seriki Samori of the community. In a formal letter to the police, the monarch detailed how Memudu, who had been nominated by him and approved by the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, strayed from his official duties.
Initially appointed to help resolve conflicts between Fulani herders and farmers while providing vital intelligence to security agencies, Memudu was accused by the monarch of engaging in illegal activities and establishing what Oba Oyemonla described as a “parallel government.”
The Sabiganna claimed that Memudu had been extorting money from Fulani residents through threats, undermining his authority, and ignoring his leadership as the traditional ruler of Iganna Kingdom.
“He has abused his office by setting up a parallel government, extorting funds from the Fulani community, and showing complete insubordination to my authority,” the monarch stated.
Oba Oyemonla further alleged that instead of guiding Fulani youths towards lawful behavior, Memudu was exploiting their alleged criminal activities for personal gain. “His primary focus has been extortion, rather than managing the crises he was tasked with addressing,” the monarch added.
Despite repeated warnings, the monarch said Memudu’s actions continued to undermine traditional authority and put the region’s security at risk. He cited a specific incident involving arson in Onikoro, where Memudu allegedly obstructed investigations and manipulated Fulani suspects.
“This is a dangerous security issue that must not be ignored for the sake of peace and stability in our local government,” Oba Oyemonla said.
The monarch has called on the Iganna Police Area Command to summon Memudu, warn him against continuing to pose as Seriki Samori, and take swift action to prevent further escalation. He also urged authorities to strengthen the security framework in Iwajowa LGA and its surrounding areas.
