Oyo Govt Suspends Chief Over Alleged Illegal Mining
The Oyo State Government has suspended Chief Jacob Adefabi, the Sobaloju of Ofiki in Atisbo Local Government Area, over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities and violations of the state’s mining regulations.
The suspension was conveyed in a letter dated January 5, 2026, issued by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr A.M. Olajire.
According to the letter, the traditional ruler was accused of breaching Executive Order 001/2023, which regulates mining activities in the state, and of encouraging trespassing on government-gazetted assets.
The government alleged that the Sobaloju issued consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation, permitted mining activities within state government reserved forests, and facilitated unauthorised mining operations.
The suspension, which took effect from Monday, January 5, 2026, is pending the outcome of investigations into the allegations.
The 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,” described the action as a precautionary measure taken in the interest of the state and to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
“I am directed to refer to the above subject and inform you that you have been accused of violating the State Executive Order 001/2023, which governs mining activities in Oyo State, and of encouraging trespassing on government gazetted assets,” the letter read.
“The allegations include issuing consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation, permitting mining activities in State Government Reserved Forests, and facilitating unauthorised mining operations.”
The embattled chief was further directed to refrain from all activities related to mining and the issuance of consent letters to miners, avoid interfering with the ongoing investigation, and make himself available for questioning whenever required by the investigating team.
Abiodun Ogunrinde is a Linguist and Journalist with considerable years of experience in Print Journalism. He blends creativity with a sense of reporting that addresses public concern and human interests.
