BREAKING: Ondo monarch dies amid lingering chieftaincy dispute

By Boye Oyeyemi

Oba Moses Ekundayo Bakare, the Onidogun of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, has reportedly died, months after a dispute over his reign triggered tension in the community.

The monarch reportedly died on Thursday, October 15, 2026. However, details surrounding the circumstances of his death had yet to emerge as of Friday, October 16.

A senior government official confirmed the development, saying some traditional chiefs from Idogun had informed him of the monarch’s death. The official did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the reported passing.

The development comes amid a prolonged dispute between the monarch and some residents of the community, which reportedly escalated to the point of his departure from Idogun.

The disagreement was reportedly fuelled by allegations of misconduct against the monarch, including claims of thuggery and questionable land transactions. However, the allegations have not been independently verified, and it remains unclear whether they were formally investigated.

Tensions surrounding the monarch’s absence recently drew attention when some residents gathered to mark one year since his departure from the community. The event reflected the depth of the disagreement over his reign and its implications for traditional leadership in Idogun.

The gathering was reportedly held under the theme, “One Year Freedom and Exit of a Tyrant,” with media organisations said to have covered the event. A cow was also reportedly slaughtered during the occasion.

Oba Bakare’s reported death could further complicate the lingering chieftaincy dispute in Idogun. However, the circumstances of his passing, the community’s official position and the possible implications for the traditional leadership succession remain unclear.