Oba Joseph Oloyede, known as the Apetu of Ipetumodu, formally pleaded guilty in a U.S. federal court on April 21, 2025, admitting involvement in a $4.2 million fraud involving COVID-19 relief funds under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) schemes. He acknowledged the pandemic’s unprecedented strain—particularly his health fears—but clarified that “COVID-19 is not an excuse, but it is a factor.” Peoples Gazette NigeriaWikipedia

Assets Seized as Part of U.S. Legal Action

U.S. authorities have already seized assets related to the case, including a property in Medina County, Ohio, and over $96,000 from business accounts linked to Oloyede. After his arrest in May 2024, he was granted bail and released in February 2025 when he surrendered his passports and met court conditions. Peoples Gazette NigeriaTechpressionWikipedia

Community Reacts to King’s Absence

The prolonged absence of the monarch since early 2024 left his community in Ipetumodu unsettled, particularly after he missed several key cultural festivals. His removal from traditional duties sparked conversations about leadership gaps and pending succession issues back home.