The Gbeleru Royal Family of Igbajo in Osun has announced the death of a former All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in the state, Adegboyega Famodun.
The announcement of Famodun’s death was made by his son, David Famodun, on behalf of the family, in a statement on Sunday in Osogbo.
According to the statement, Famodun died on Friday after a brief illness at the age of 67.
“As you may recall, Oba Adegboyega Famodun was installed and presented with the staff of office on Nov. 24, 2022, by former Gov. Adegboyega Oyetola.
” Although his position was disputed by a white‑paper issued by Gov. Ademola Adeleke, the State High Court reinstated him on Jan. 30, 2025.
“During his reign, Oba Famodun worked tirelessly to unite the people of Igbajoland, promoting peace, understanding and progress.
“His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the community, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“He will be remembered for his peaceful nature, exceptional wisdom and tireless efforts to promote community development. May his kind soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement read.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Famodun, who was installed as the 30th Owa of Igbajo by former Gov. Gboyega Oyetola, was removed in 2022 by Gov. Ademola Adeleke.
On March 12, 2024, the state government approved the appointment of Ademola Makinde as the new Owa of Igbajo, replacing Famodun.
The APC, in a statement by its chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, faulted the government’s decision, saying the stool is still the subject of pending lawsuits.
Meanwhile, Gov. Adeleke has commiserated with the family of the deceased and the APC.
In a condolence message issued by his spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke prayed that God grant the family and members of the opposition party the strength to bear the loss.
“On behalf of the government and people of Osun State, I condole the family of our late brother, Adegboyega Famodun.
“I heard the shocking news as I was arriving in the country today. Our late brother was a close family friend.
“We mourn his sudden death. We join the family in this grieving period. I pray his soul rests in perfect peace,” he said.
Similarly, one of the APC governorship aspirants, Dotun Babayemi, has expressed sadness over Famodun’s death.
Babayemi, in a condolence message, described his death as shocking and unbelievable.
“The news of the death of Oba Philip Adegboyega Famodun is very shocking and sad.
” It is a great loss to the Igbajo community, the APC and the entire state.
“He played his part well and contributed immensely to the development of Osun. No doubt, Oba Famodun will be sorely missed,” he said.(NAN)