••••urges the public to disregard allegations
The Igbeti Progressive Union (IPU) has issued a statement denying allegations made against the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, linking him to smuggling activities. The union describes the claims as “false, mischievous, and aimed at misleading the public and sowing discord within a peaceful community”.
According to the statement, Igbeti is not a border town and has no history of smuggling or criminal activity. The community is known for its hardworking farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs who contribute positively to the local and national economy.
The IPU attributes the allegations to Mr. Ponmile Omidiji, who failed to secure a youth leadership position in the community and has since been involved in divisive behavior. The union demands an apology from Omidiji and reiterates its confidence in the Onigbeti’s leadership, citing his role in promoting peace, unity, and progress in Igbeti.
The statement concludes by urging the public to disregard the allegations and affirming the IPU’s commitment to the peaceful growth and development of Igbeti.
The statement reads:
RE: THE IGBETI PROGRESSIVE UNION (IPU) ON BASELESS CLAIMS AGAINST THE ONIGBETI OF IGBETI
For Immediate Release
Date: October 27, 2025
The Igbeti Progressive Union (IPU), a respected body of businessmen, professionals, and community leaders of Igbeti origin, has read with utmost concern the recent media publication in which one Mr. Ponmile Omidiji, alongside some individuals claiming affiliation with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), made spurious and unfounded allegations linking His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, the Onigbeti of Igbeti, to smuggling activities.
We, the members of the Igbeti Progressive Union, hereby categorically and unequivocally debunk these malicious claims. There has never been, and there is currently no record, of any smuggling incident in Igbeti, let alone any activity that could involve our revered monarch.
These allegations are false, mischievous, and aimed at misleading the public and sowing discord within a peaceful community.
No Grounds for Smuggling Allegation
For clarity, Igbeti is not a border town and lies considerably far from any of Nigeria’s international borders, making any claim of smuggling operations within or around it both illogical and baseless. The town’s geography alone invalidates such an accusation.
Furthermore, Igbeti has never had any record of illegality or criminal notoriety in its long history. Our people are known throughout Oyo State and beyond as hardworking farmers, traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs, whose daily pursuits contribute positively to the local and national economy.
The Igbeti community has, over the years, maintained cordial and collaborative relationships with government institutions and security agencies, always supporting them in the discharge of their lawful duties. There has never been any report of obstruction, conflict, or interference with law enforcement operations in our town.
Omidiji’s Motive and Conduct
It is important to state that Mr. Ponmile Omidiji’s unruly conduct and attempts to destabilize Igbeti intensified after he failed to secure the Youth Leadership position in the community. His subsequent outbursts and open fraternization with cultist elements have raised serious concerns among elders and youths alike.
His antecedents in higher institutions and within Igbeti reflect a pattern of divisive behavior and indiscipline, reasons that informed the community’s decision not to entrust him with any position of responsibility. It is therefore no surprise that he now resorts to propaganda, blackmail, and reckless statements to create tension and attract attention.
Our Confidence in the Onigbeti’s Leadership
The Igbeti Progressive Union reiterates its unwavering confidence in the leadership and integrity of His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, who since his ascension has remained a symbol of peace, unity, and progress.
Under his reign, Igbeti has enjoyed harmony and stability, with numerous communal disputes amicably resolved through his wisdom and fatherly guidance. Kabiyesi’s efforts in community development and youth empowerment are visible and widely acknowledged.
It is, therefore, completely unthinkable and grossly irresponsible for anyone to attempt to link such a respected traditional ruler to criminality or smuggling.
Demand for Apology and Call for Peace
The Igbeti Progressive Union demands that Mr. Ponmile Omidiji publicly tenders an unreserved apology, through the same media platforms and by personally visiting the palace of the Onigbeti, to express remorse and retract his baseless allegations.
As a son of the soil, the IPU assures him that no harm shall befall him if he retraces his steps and embraces peace. The Onigbeti and the good people of Igbeti are known for forgiveness, tolerance, and reconciliation, values that define our cultural identity.
Commitment to Peace and Development
The Igbeti Progressive Union remains devoted to the peaceful growth and development of our town. Among our many community projects is the construction of a lodge for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, reflecting our commitment to supporting national programmes and fostering hospitality.
We affirm once again that Igbeti is a peaceful, law-abiding, and industrious community. Our people will never be associated with illegality, violence, or any conduct that undermines the rule of law.
Conclusion
We urge the people of Igbeti and the general public to disregard the falsehoods spread by Ponmile Omidiji and his collaborators. The peace, progress, and dignity of Igbeti must not be compromised by the ambitions or frustrations of a few individuals.
The Igbeti Progressive Union stands firmly behind His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, and will continue to support his vision for unity, stability, and sustained development in Igbeti land.
Signed:
Chairman, Igbeti Progressive Union (IPU)
For and on behalf of the Igbeti Progressive Union