A violent chieftaincy dispute in Esa-Oke, Osun State, has led to the death of four residents, while seven police officers sustained injuries during the unrest.
The Esa-Oke Central Union accused armed individuals disguised in police uniforms of invading the town, opening fire on residents, and causing multiple casualties.
In videos circulating online, five individuals were seen covered in blood after the attack.
However, the Osun State Police Command denied these allegations, claiming that unidentified gunmen ambushed police officers heading to Esa-Oke to restore order.
Tension Over Monarch’s Appointment Sparks Violence
Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, the union’s representative, Mr. Oladiti Awodiran, revealed that:
Three vehicles were set ablaze in the Owamiran of Esa-Oke’s palace during the conflict.
The clashes erupted after the Osun State Government announced the appointment of Prince Timileyin Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ayegunle.
The Esa-Oke community opposed the decision, claiming that the appointed monarch was an outsider and had no historical ties to the town.
Awodiran insisted that the settlement of Ido Ayegunle falls within Esa-Oke, and the imposition of a monarch there contradicts local traditions.
“We have always resisted the installation of an Oba or Baale within Esa-Oke town,” he stated. “This new development is unacceptable, and as I speak, youths from Esa-Oke are being arrested and taken to unknown locations.”
He called on security agencies and the Osun State Government to investigate the killings and bring the culprits to justice.
Police Respond to Crisis
Meanwhile, Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Opalola, disclosed that officers were deployed following a distress call from Esa-Oke.
On their way to the scene, gunmen ambushed the officers, blocking the road with logs of wood.
As officers attempted to clear the path, they were attacked from the bush, resulting in seven officers being injured.
The police repelled the attack and arrested two suspects at the scene.
Nine Arrested So Far
The police later arrested an additional seven suspects, bringing the total to nine. Among those arrested was Olayinka Olatunji Lawrence, also known as Obanla of Esa-Oke, and his son, Daniel Olayinka.
Osun’s Amotekun Corps and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have also deployed personnel to the area to prevent further violence.
Government Appeals for Calm
Osun State Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, has urged residents to maintain peace and allow the government to resolve the chieftaincy dispute amicably.
Stay Updated with NIGPOST
For more breaking news and updates, visit NIGPOST.com.ng.
Leave a Reply