IPETUMODU, Osun State – Tension has gripped the ancient town of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area following the mysterious disappearance of the ancient Aare crown and royal beads belonging to the Apetu of Ipetumodu.
The development comes barely two weeks after a U.S. District Judge, Christopher A. Boyko, sentenced Oba Joseph Oloyede to 56 months in prison over a $4.2 million COVID-19 fraud case.
According to palace sources, aides and loyalists of the embattled monarch allegedly ordered the removal of the sacred items from his house, which also served as the palace after he demolished the original royal residence.
A woman and some close associates of the monarch were reportedly instructed to evacuate the regalia, including the crown and beads, sparking outrage among indigenes and ruling houses.
Community leaders have expressed grave concern, warning that the disappearance could have severe cultural and spiritual consequences for the town.
“The crown is missing and the mastermind has no idea of the backlash this will bring. They are courting the fury of the deities of this ancient community. It is in their best interest to return the crown and royal bead before it’s too late,” a senior chieftain told The Nation.
The disappearance has also intensified calls for the monarch’s replacement, with ruling houses already pushing forward eligible princes to fill the throne.
When The Nation visited Ipetumodu during the week, the atmosphere was tense despite normal economic activity. Markets and streets bustled with trade, but conversations were dominated by whispers of embarrassment, betrayal, and fear of ancestral retribution.
For a town renowned for its rich royal heritage, the missing regalia has left a scar of uncertainty on its traditional leadership and cultural pride.
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