By Bayero Ade
Tensions remain high in Esa Oke as residents continue to express opposition to the appointment of Prince Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ajegunle.
According to PU, in response to the escalating unrest, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced plans to set up a panel to investigate the recent violent clashes that shook the town.
On Monday, the Esa-Oke Central Union claimed that assailants disguised in police uniforms invaded the community, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and several injuries. The union attributed the violence to the imposition of a non-indigene as the traditional ruler of a segment of Esa Oke.
However, the Osun State Police Command refuted claims that its officers opened fire on residents. Instead, they reported that seven of their officers were injured in an ambush while trying to quell the unrest.
At a peace meeting in Esa Oke on Tuesday, Governor Adeleke explained that his visit was focused on identifying the root cause of the crisis. He also noted that he had purposely avoided declaring a curfew, hoping that dialogue would help restore peace.
Reaffirming his commitment to justice, Adeleke assured the community that those responsible for the violence would be held accountable.
“It’s regrettable that the palace and local businesses were affected. While disagreements are inevitable, resorting to violence and destruction of property is unacceptable,” he said.
The governor also cautioned against external forces seeking to exploit the situation for political gain, stressing that acts of arson on the palace were completely unjustifiable.
“I do not believe any true indigene of Esa Oke would engage in such an act. Anyone responsible for setting fire to the palace is not a true son or daughter of this community,” he stated.
Governor Adeleke further assured residents that a full investigation would be conducted and that justice would prevail, regardless of who was involved.
“If you have any concerns, feel free to submit a petition, and I will take action. There’s no need for violence, as I am committed to ensuring fairness and justice,” he concluded, emphasizing his administration’s dedication to peace and stability in the region.
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