…Sets up panel of inquiry
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has pledged to investigate the root cause of the crisis in Esa-Oke, which led to the destruction of property.
The violence erupted following the appointment of Prince Timileyin Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ajegunle in Obokun Local Government.
Governor Adeleke made the commitment after inspecting the Palace of the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, where one vehicle and one motorcycle were burnt, and parts of the palace were also affected. He assured the public that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
“We will form a panel of inquiry to investigate the root cause of this,” the Governor stated. “Since I know Esa-Oke, it is a very peaceful community. It is unfortunate that the palace and shops were affected. While disagreements can happen, there is no justification for killing and destroying homes. What do we stand to gain from such actions?”
He continued, “What contributes to development and progress in a community is peace. We must ensure the safety of all, including visitors and students. If people hear that there is constant fighting here, they will leave, and this place will be neglected.
“There is no benefit in fighting. You’ve written your petition, and you have a government that is responsible and listens.”
In a statement, Otunba Bamigboye Aremu, Chairman of the Esa-Oke Central Union (ECU), appealed to the state government to issue a white paper on the appointment of Prince Timileyin Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ajegunle. He stressed that this action was necessary to restore the trust of the people of Esa-Oke in the government.
“We appeal for the unconditional release of our youths who were arrested indiscriminately during the recent crisis,” Aremu said.
“The arrests were made in poor judgment, as the authorities failed to identify those actually responsible for the property destruction. Our youths are innocent and should not be punished for a crisis they did not cause.”
Earlier, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeyemi Akanbi Adediran (Atipa Owaji II, Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke), urged Governor Adeleke to review the petition submitted to his office.
The monarch reiterated that Esa-Oke is traditionally a peaceful community.