From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
A prominent traditional ruler in Osun State, the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan, has denied rumours of his death.
The monarch, who spoke with journalists in a conference call made through his lawyer, Chief Sola Ebiseni, said he is hale and healthy.
The monarch dismissed the news of his death, describing the rumour as “a blessing for long life.”
He said, “I am hale and healthy. I have received several phone calls from all over the world, particularly from Ondo State, about my death.
“The rumour was a wicked one. Of course, I travelled for a short vacation and will be home soon,” he added.
The news of the rumoured death of the highly revered monarch was reported in a section of the online media.
Oba Akinruntan, who is the Chairman of Obat Oil, is one of the richest traditional rulers in Africa.
He was, until recently, the chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers.