of the Owa of Igbajo has refuted trending social media reports claiming that the reigning monarch, Alayeluwa Oba Ademola Stephen Kayode Makinde, has passed away.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the Traditional Secretary of the Royal Court of Igbajo, Gbonjubola Loremikan Olorunnisola, the palace confirmed that the monarch is alive, healthy, and carrying out his duties.

The palace clarified that the community is instead mourning the loss of Prince Philip Adegboyega Famodun, described as an exemplary and highly respected son of Igbajo land.

According to the palace, the misleading news created confusion across social media, print, and broadcast outlets, prompting numerous inquiries from concerned Nigerians and leading many to visit the palace to verify the monarch’s wellbeing.

“The palace wishes to inform the general public that Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Ademola Stephen Kayode Makinde, Onigemo I, the Owa of Igbajo land, is alive and healthy,” the statement emphasized.

The palace also addressed the ongoing legal matter involving the late Famodun, noting that some media reports wrongly referred to him as the Owa of Igbajo. It explained that the dispute remains before the court, with an appeal currently at the Court of Appeal in Akure challenging an earlier judgment from the High Court in Ile-Ife. A Stay of Execution filed at the High Court has also not yet been heard.

Both parties were present in court on November 13, 2025, with the matter adjourned to January 2026. Until the case is resolved, the palace stated, the status quo remains unchanged.

Despite correcting the misinformation, the palace expressed heartfelt grief over Famodun’s passing, acknowledging his significant contributions to politics and to the Igbajo community.

“Igbajo land has lost an irreplaceable son,” the palace said, extending condolences to the Gbeleru Royal House, his immediate family, and the entire Igbajo community.

Owa of Igbajo Is Alive and Well, Palace Debunks Viral Death Rumour

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