Nigerian Monarch Joseph Oloyede Jailed in U.S. for COVID‑19 Fraud
The traditional ruler of Ipetumodu in Osun State—Oba Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede—has been sentenced to prison in the United States following his involvement in a multimillion-dollar COVID‑19 relief fraud. His fall from grace underscores how even revered leaders can exploit crisis systems and face the full weight of international justice.
Arrest and Charges
In April 2024, Joseph Oloyede—who also holds American citizenship—was apprehended by the FBI in Ohio, after a U.S. District Court issued a warrant for his arrest. A grand jury indicted him and his co-conspirator, Nigerian pastor Edward Oluwasanmi, on 13 counts of fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to defraud U.S. government programs.
Oloyede used a network of six registered companies to submit falsified applications for substantial Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funds. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) unwittingly disbursed approximately $4.2 million in loans between April 2020 and February 2022.
In June 2020 alone, Oloyede obtained over $100,000 for four of his companies. He later secured $500,000 loans for JO&A and Available Transportation in October 2021.
Plea and Asset Forfeiture
On April 24, 2025, Oloyede pleaded guilty in a U.S. federal court, admitting to key charges including wire fraud, tax fraud, and monetary transactions derived from criminal proceeds.
As part of his plea agreement, a U.S. court ordered the forfeiture of multiple assets linked to the fraud. This included a luxurious residence in Medina County, Ohio—registered under his wife’s name—and $96,006.89 held in a JP Morgan Chase account under the name “Joseph Oloyede and Associates Ltd.”
The couple agreed not to challenge or appeal the forfeiture, in exchange for sentencing leniency.
Sentencing and Restitution
On August 26, 2025, U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko sentenced Oloyede to 56 months in prison—just under five years. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $4,408,543.38 in restitution.
The court officially confiscated his Medina residence and the seized bank funds as part of its judgment.
Cultural Fallout and Community Impact
Back home in Ipetumodu, Oloyede’s prolonged absence deeply unsettled the community. As monarch since November 2019, he missed essential cultural and spiritual festivals—including Odun Egungun and Odun Edi—leaving a leadership void and raising anxieties about traditional continuity.
Broader Implications
This case spotlights vulnerability in emergency relief programs and the lengths some individuals may go to exploit them. Oloyede, a respected figure turned convicted fraudster, exemplifies how fraud can occur behind the guise of legitimacy. His conviction is part of wider U.S. efforts to reclaim pandemic-era funds and assert accountability.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Individual | Oba Joseph Oloyede, Apetu of Ipetumodu; dual U.S.–Nigeria citizen |
| Fraud Amount | $4.2 million in PPP/EIDL COVID‑19 relief loans |
| Charges | Wire fraud, tax fraud, money laundering, conspiracy |
| Plea Date | April 24, 2025 |
| Sentencing Date | August 26, 2025 |
| Prison Term | 56 months |
| Restitution | $4,408,543.38 |
| Assets Forfeited | Medina County home; ~$96,000 banking assets |
| Cultural Repercussions | Absence disrupted local monarchy; festivals missed; leadership gap |
Conclusion
The conviction of a traditional ruler on American soil for defrauding government relief programs is a rare and significant event. Oba Joseph Oloyede’s case illustrates the reach of U.S. justice, even into the halls of international royalty. As he begins his prison term, the Ipetumodu community faces a cultural and administrative reckoning. A stark reminder that leadership carries both honor and accountability.
