IGBAJO, Osun State – The Royal Palace of Igbajo has issued a forceful denial of widespread rumours claiming the demise of the town’s traditional ruler, Oba Dr. Ademola Stephen Kayode Makinde, Onigemo I, the Owa of Igbajoland.
In a statement released by the Traditional Secretary, Gbonjubola Loremikan Olorunnisola, the palace moved to correct a “confusing story” that flooded social, print, and electronic media, stating unequivocally that “Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Ademola Stephen Kayode Makinde… is very much alive.”
The clarification became necessary as the false news prompted a flood of condolence phone calls to the palace and caused numerous well-wishers to travel from “far and near” to verify the monarch’s condition.
The palace confirmed that the community is, in fact, in a state of mourning, but for a different figure: Prince Philip Adegboyega Famodun, described as “an irreplaceable son” of Igbajo. The statement eulogised Prince Famodun for working “tirelessly to place an indelible mark amongst his political associates and Igbajo Community.”
The palace extended its commiseration to the Gbeleru royal house, the immediate family of the late prince, and the entire Igbajo community.
Amid the corrections and condolences, the palace statement also referenced an ongoing legal matter concerning the kingship. It noted an “impending case” at the Appellate Court in Akure, relating to an appeal against a High Court judgement in Ile-Ife, for which a Stay of Execution has been filed.
“This makes the status quo remains,” the statement read, adding that both parties were in court as recently as November 16, 2025, with the case adjourned to January 2026.
The palace’s unusual statement, combining a denial of the monarch’s death, confirmation of a prominent citizen’s passing, and a note on royal litigation, underscores a period of heightened sensitivity and anxiety within the Igbajo community. It concludes with a prayer for fortitude for those grieving the loss of Prince Famodun.
