The lingering crisis in Ogbomoso took a fresh turn on Sunday as a former senator representing Oyo Central, Ayoade Adeseun, formally relinquished his title as Mayegun of Ogbomosoland, barely days after his suspension by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
Adeseun, who served in the Senate between 2011 and 2015, announced his resignation at a press briefing held in Onipanu community, Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State, declaring that there was no need for the monarch to review or reverse the suspension earlier imposed on him.
The former lawmaker attributed his decision to what he described as the monarch’s high-handed leadership style, insisting he would not engage in any reconciliation process with the traditional ruler.
“I have no intention of sitting down with the Soun. Having made up my mind, I see no reason for the suspension to be revisited,” he said.
The development followed the monarch’s decision on March 23, 2026, to suspend Adeseun indefinitely over alleged misconduct.
The action was conveyed in a letter signed by the palace secretary, Toyin Ajamu, which accused the ex-senator of insubordination and persistent disrespect to the throne.
According to the palace, the measure was taken to preserve the integrity of the traditional institution, noting that Adeseun’s actions had become a source of concern within the palace.
However, Adeseun dismissed the allegations and instead accused the monarch of pursuing divisive policies capable of undermining the longstanding unity in Ogbomoso.
He alleged that since ascending the throne, Oba Olaoye had introduced tendencies that were creating unnecessary tension among residents, particularly along religious lines.
“The people of Ogbomoso have always lived together peacefully, irrespective of their religious differences. Introducing religion into leadership decisions will only breed division,” he stated.
The former senator, who identified himself as a Muslim, cited his decades-long interfaith marriage as an example of the town’s tradition of tolerance.
He also cautioned the monarch against interfering in ongoing legal matters, particularly the dispute involving the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, which is currently before a court.
“The matter is already in court, and due process must be allowed to take its course. No one should assume the role of a judge,” he added.
Adeseun maintained that his decision to step down was final, signalling a deepening rift within the traditional and political landscape of Ogbomoso.