BREAKING: Senator Adeseun Resigns As Mayegun After Suspension By Soun Of Ogbomosoland, Cites Monarch's 'Divisive Actions'

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Adeseun’s resignation comes less than two weeks after the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, announced his indefinite suspension from the chieftaincy title over alleged insubordination and disrespect to the palace.

The leadership crisis in Ogbomosoland has escalated, with former lawmaker Senator Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun resigning from his position as Mayegun of Ogbomosoland, citing concerns over governance style, rising tensions, and what he described as divisive actions within the ancient town.

The suspension was conveyed in a letter dated March 23, 2026, and signed by the Palace Secretary, Toyin Ajamu.

In a separate letter addressed to the monarch, Adeseun stated that his resignation takes immediate effect, adding that the decision had been under consideration since the early months of the king’s ascension to the throne.

He explained that he had initially delayed his resignation out of respect for the institution of the Sounship and in honour of the late Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, who conferred the title on him about five years ago in recognition of his contributions to the development of Ogbomosoland.

However, the former Mayegun said recent developments, particularly what he described as the monarch’s actions, ultimately compelled him to formally disengage from the palace.

Speaking at a press conference, Adeseun expressed concern over what he called a growing leadership crisis in Ogbomoso, alleging that the monarch’s leadership style has eroded the long-standing peace and unity for which the town is known.

He described Ogbomoso as historically accommodating and tolerant, warning that its legacy of peaceful coexistence among religious and cultural groups is now under threat.

Adeseun accused the monarch of engaging in supremacy disputes with other traditional rulers in Ogbomosoland, including the Olugbon of Orile Igbon and the Onpetu of Ijeru, despite their recognised autonomy.

He also alleged interference in religious affairs, particularly in the leadership dispute involving the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso. According to him, efforts to remove the Chief Imam and assert control over the Ogbomoso Central Mosque escalated tensions within the Muslim community.

The former senator further claimed that prominent bodies, including the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Christian Association of Nigeria, had intervened in the matter, though without resolution.

Adeseun also accused the monarch of targeting community-based organisations and respected individuals, citing socio-cultural groups such as Ogbomoso Parapo Worldwide, whose leadership he alleged the monarch attempted to dissolve before the courts intervened.

He cited alleged harassment and intimidation of prominent figures, including Dr. Saka Adegbite Balogun and Alhaji Monsur Ayoade Ejide, as well as incidents involving market leaders and grassroots associations who were reportedly subjected to humiliation at the palace.

According to him, such actions have disrupted the long-standing harmony in the town and are not in line with the aspirations of the people.

“In these circumstances, I cannot in good conscience continue to operate as a Chief under your leadership,” Adeseun said.

Highlighting his contributions to the development of Ogbomoso, the former lawmaker listed several projects he facilitated, including the establishment of the National Biotechnology Development Agency centre in Onipanu and the Federal Polytechnic Ayede.

He called on the Oyo State Government and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene to restore peace in the town, warning that continued unrest could pose wider security risks.

Despite his resignation, Adeseun reaffirmed his commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Ogbomosoland, urging all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and allow peace to reign.