Suspected thieves have reportedly targeted the palace of the late Olu of Ogunmakin town, Oba James Sodiya, in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, making away with the revered crown and staff of office. The incident, occurring about two months after the monarch’s passing, took place on Thursday and was confirmed by the state’s police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, during a statement to journalists in Abeokuta on Saturday.
The hoodlums, identified as Amusa Kazeem, Oke Oladipupo, and Johnson Oluwole, allegedly broke into the palace in the early hours of the day, committing what was described as an abomination by the police spokesperson. While the police have recovered the stolen crown from the residence of Amusa Kazeem, they are still in pursuit of the staff of office.
“On the 12th of October 2023, an intelligence was received from the palace of his Royal Majesty late Ogunmakin that one Amusa Kazeem, Oke Oladipupo and Johnson Oluwole conspired and stole the royal crown and the staff of office two months after the demise of the king of Ogunmakin,” stated Omolola Odutola.
She further explained, “The staff of office has not been recovered, but intensive action is ongoing to recover the same. The suspects have been arrested and are undergoing interrogation.”
Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, has appealed to the public to provide any information that could aid in the recovery of the missing staff of office. The incident has sparked concerns in the community, and efforts are underway to restore the stolen artifacts and uphold the dignity of the late monarch’s legacy.
