Esa-Oke, Osun State — Tensions escalated in Esa-Oke, Osun State, as violent clashes over a chieftaincy dispute resulted in the deaths of four residents and injuries to several others, including police officers.
The crisis erupted following the appointment of Prince Timileyin Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ayegunle by the Osun State Government. The announcement sparked outrage among residents of Esa-Oke, who have historically resisted the installation of a traditional ruler within their territory.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo, Oladiti Awodiran, spokesperson for the Esa-Oke Central Union, alleged that men in police uniforms stormed the town, opened fire on residents, and set three vehicles ablaze at the palace of Oba Adeyemi Adediran, the Owamiran of Esa-Oke.
“My heart bleeds as I inform you that men in police uniforms invaded the Esa-Oke community, shooting sporadically. This led to the death of no fewer than four youths, while several others were wounded. We also witnessed the destruction of three vehicles at the Owamiran’s palace,” Awodiran stated.
He further condemned the appointment of a traditional ruler in what he described as a settlement within Esa-Oke, arguing that Ido Ayegunle falls under Unit 11, a polling station of the community, and that imposing an external monarch was unacceptable.
Police Deny Wrongdoing, Confirm Injuries
In response, the Osun State Police Command denied allegations of attacking residents but confirmed that seven of its officers sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to restore order.
Osun Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, explained that the officers were ambushed while en route to the crisis scene.
“Upon receiving a distress call regarding the unrest in Esa-Oke, the Commissioner of Police deployed officers to the area. However, on their way, they encountered roadblocks made of logs. As some officers attempted to clear the path, gunmen opened fire from nearby bushes, injuring seven policemen,” Opalola revealed.
She further stated that the officers repelled the attack, leading to the arrest of two suspects at the scene. Subsequent investigations resulted in the apprehension of seven more individuals, bringing the total number of arrests to nine. Among them was Olayinka Olatunji Lawrence, also known as Obanla of Esa-Oke, and his son, Daniel Olayinka.
Security Forces Intensify Operations
In a bid to restore order, security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have increased their presence in the area.
Confirming this, Kolapo Alimi, Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, urged residents to remain calm and allow for a peaceful resolution.
“The government is committed to ensuring peace and justice. We appeal to all involved to embrace dialogue and avoid further violence,” Alimi stated.
The situation remains tense, but authorities assure residents that efforts are underway to prevent further escalation.
Edited and Compiled by Oladele Emmanuel M | February 6, 2025.
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