By Peter Omopo
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed deep sadness over the death of former state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and embattled 30th Owa of Igbajo, Adegboyega Famodun, who passed away at the age of 67 after a brief illness.
Famodun’s death was confirmed on Sunday by the Gbeleru Royal Family of Igbajo, marking the end of a turbulent period defined by political, traditional, and legal battles surrounding his reign as monarch.
A Monarch in Controversy
Famodun was installed as the Owa of Igbajo in 2022 during the final days of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola’s administration. However, upon assuming office, Governor Adeleke issued an executive order nullifying his appointment, replacing him with Oba Ademola Makinde.
The tussle took a dramatic turn in January 2025 when the Osun State High Court reinstated Oba Famodun. The ruling remains under appeal, leaving the stool in a prolonged legal dispute at the time of his passing.
Adeleke: “We Lost a Family Friend and a Notable Politician”
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke extended condolences to Famodun’s family, the APC, and the people of Igbajo.
Adeleke, who said he received the news shortly after arriving back in the country, described the late politician as a long-time associate of the Adeleke family and “a politician of note” who played a significant role in Osun’s political evolution.
“On behalf of the government and people of Osun State, I condole the family of our late brother, Adegboyega Famodun.
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,” the governor said.
Family Confirms Death, Highlights Legacy
A statement issued by Prince Adekunle Famodun on behalf of the Gbeleru Royal Family revealed that the late monarch died on Friday, November 28, 2025, after a short illness.
The family noted that Famodun was married and survived by children, adding that despite political disputes over his position, he remained committed to the unity and development of Igbajo.
“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,” the statement read.
The royal family praised his peaceful nature, wisdom, and dedication to community development, describing his legacy as one that “will continue to inspire future generations.”
