United States – A traditional ruler from Nigeria has admitted guilt in a US federal court. Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu, and Nigerian pastor Edward Oluwasanmi both pleaded guilty to participating in a major COVID-19 relief fraud scheme. The Nigerian monarch pleads guilty alongside his associate.
Details of the Fraud Scheme
US authorities arrested the two men early in 2024. They faced accusations of illegally obtaining $4.2 million meant for pandemic relief. The 13-count indictment included serious charges like conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud itself, and money laundering.
Court documents outlined how they allegedly operated. They “submitted falsified applications” for Paycheck Protection Programme (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). This occurred between April 2020 and February 2022, exploiting the US CARES Act relief measures. Link to relevant US Dept. of Justice announcement or case file.
Community Left Reeling by Monarch’s Actions
Back in Ipetumodu, Osun State, Oba Oloyede’s prolonged absence confused residents. He had missed key cultural festivals after traveling abroad. His disappearance, plus ongoing demolition work on the town palace he promised to rebuild, fueled local rumors. Confirmation eventually came: the Oba was detained in the US.
The investigation revealed the Nigerian monarch allegedly used his own businesses – including Available Tax Services Incorporated to secure the fraudulent funds. These funds were intended to help to struggle American businesses survive the pandemic.
Guilty Pleas Entered in Court
The court filings detail the extent of the fraud. Oba Oloyede and Oluwasanmi illegally obtained $3.76 million from the PPP and EIDL programs. Oluwasanmi, operating businesses like Dayspring Transportation Limited, reportedly diverted millions for his own use, including buying property.
Oluwasanmi formally entered his guilty plea on April 10, 2025, admitting to three counts. Court records show his sentencing is scheduled for July 2, 2025. He remains on bond under existing conditions.
Monarch Admits Guilt, Calls for Intervention Rise
Oba Oloyede followed suit, submitting his guilty plea on Monday, April 21. A court hearing was set for Thursday, April 24. News that the Nigerian monarch pleads guilty has understandably caused significant distress in Ipetumodu. Community leaders and residents are now calling on the Osun State government to investigate the scandal and consider intervening.
The sense of betrayal is sharp, particularly given the Oba’s promises of community development. As the legal process continues in the US, Ipetumodu’s future leadership remains uncertain, overshadowed by this significant breach of trust.
Abdullah Korede
