Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has vowed to investigate the violent chieftaincy dispute that erupted in Esa-Oke, Obokun Local Government Area, following an attack by armed men. The governor, who visited the affected community on Tuesday, assured residents that a panel of inquiry would be set up to unravel the cause of the crisis and bring those responsible to justice.
The unrest, which unfolded on Monday, saw gunmen storming the town, firing indiscriminately and leaving several residents injured. The attack also led to the burning of a car and significant damage to the Owamiran of Esa-Oke’s palace.
Adeleke Calls for Peace, Warns Against Violence
During his visit, Governor Adeleke condemned the act of violence and stressed the importance of dialogue over conflict. He urged the warring factions to embrace peace and assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns fairly.
₦10,000.00
Kiss Beauty Fix Setting Spray
₦15,000.00
Disaar Vitamin C Body Lotion
₦15,000.00
Sweet Almond Supa Whiten Lotion 500ml
₦10,000.00
Men’s Nourishing Skin Anti-aging Cream – 50g
“Having listened to your grievances, I will set up a panel of inquiry to investigate the matter and ensure that every culprit is brought to book. I will look at your complaints with the fear of God and ensure that everyone gets justice,” Adeleke said.
He also lamented the rising cases of communal conflicts in the state, citing the ongoing Ifon-Ilobu crisis as another troubling situation.
“It is unfortunate that we have a crisis in Ifon/Ilobu and now Esa-Oke; nothing is worth killing our people for,” the governor added.
Asalu of Esa-Oke Insists Ido-Ajegunle Belongs to Esa-Oke
The Asalu of Esa-Oke, Chief Ajewole James, reaffirmed the community’s claim over Ido-Ajegunle, stating that historical records and a government gazette recognize the town as part of Esa-Oke. He urged the government to thoroughly investigate the issue to prevent further tensions.
He clarified that the only community Ilesa could lay claim to is Ido-Ayegunle, not Ido-Ajegunle, as some have suggested.
Owamiran of Esa-Oke Demands Release of Kidnapped Baale, Arrested Youths
The Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Adediran, called for the release of the Baale of Ido-Ajegunle, who was reportedly abducted by individuals claiming to be security operatives. He also demanded the immediate release of young men arrested during the unrest.
The traditional ruler described his people as peace-loving and said they refrained from retaliating despite the looting and destruction of properties during the attack.
No Fatalities Reported, Contrary to Initial Claims
Meanwhile, the community has clarified that no lives were lost in the crisis, contradicting earlier reports that four youths were killed. On Monday, a representative of the community had claimed that gunmen killed four young men, but local accounts now state that while there were injuries and damage to properties, no fatalities were recorded.
Government’s Next Steps
Governor Adeleke’s visit marks the first major step in resolving the crisis and addressing the long-standing chieftaincy dispute. With the promise of a panel of inquiry, affected residents are now looking forward to a fair and transparent investigation that will ensure justice for all parties involved.
The Osun State Government is expected to announce the composition of the panel in the coming days, as it moves to restore peace and stability in the region.
This is good