Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered an investigation into the recent violence in Esa Oke, where a chieftaincy dispute led to deaths and destruction of property. The crisis erupted over the appointment of Prince Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ajegunle, a move the Esa Oke community has strongly opposed.
The Esa-Oke Central Union alleges that the appointment of Ajayi, who they claim is not an indigene, sparked the unrest. They further accused armed assailants in police uniforms of invading the town, killing four people, and injuring many others. However, the state police command has denied these claims, stating that seven police officers were attacked and wounded while attempting to restore order.
During a peace meeting in Esa Oke, Governor Adeleke expressed his commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining peace in the community. He acknowledged the damage caused by the crisis, including the burning of the king’s palace and several shops, calling it an unfortunate situation. Adeleke assured the people that those responsible for the violence would be held accountable.
The governor urged aggrieved parties to submit formal petitions, promising to address their concerns fairly. He emphasized that while he wished to avoid imposing a curfew, he needed the cooperation of residents to restore calm. To further investigate the root causes of the crisis, Adeleke announced the formation of a panel of inquiry.
Chairman of the Esa-Oke Central Union, Yinusa Bamigboye, reiterated the community’s stance, insisting that Ajayi’s appointment violated the traditional authority of the Owa Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Akanbi Adediran. He called for the reversal of the appointment, arguing that it would help restore trust between the community and the state government.
Bamigboye also demanded the unconditional release of individuals arrested during the crisis, claiming that security forces had detained innocent residents rather than the real perpetrators of the violence. Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peace, warning that anyone found responsible, regardless of status, would face justice.
