Oyo State Government building as authorities announce the suspension of the Sobaloju of Ofiki over alleged illegal mining activities.

Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki over alleged illegal mining and violations of Executive Order 001/2023.

The Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Chief Jacob Sobaloju, following allegations linking him to illegal mining activities and violations of Executive Order 001/2023, which regulates mining operations across the state.

The government said the decision was taken in the public interest and to safeguard government-gazetted assets.

In a suspension letter issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, the traditional ruler was accused of breaching the executive order and forest reserve regulations.

The letter, signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Olajire A.M., alleged that Chief Sobaloju unlawfully issued consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation.

He was also accused of permitting mining activities within government-reserved forest areas and facilitating unauthorised mining operations, actions the ministry said violate existing laws and regulations.

According to the ministry, the monarch has been suspended from the palace of the Onitọ of Ito with effect from Monday, January 5, 2026, pending the conclusion of investigations.

The suspension was described as a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring a transparent and unhindered investigation process.

The suspension letter, titled “Re: Complaint against Chief Sobaloju of Ofiki for violation of State Executive Order, Forest Reserve Regulations and encouraging trespassing of government gazetted assets,” stated that the allegations involve unlawful encroachment on state-owned assets.

Chief Sobaloju was directed to immediately cease all mining-related activities, including issuing consent letters, and to avoid interfering with the investigation. He was also instructed to make himself available to investigators whenever required.

The Oyo State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on illegal mining and related infractions, warning that anyone found culpable would face sanctions in line with the law.

The development underscores the state’s renewed push to enforce mining regulations and protect public assets from illegal exploitation.