The recent violence in Esa Oke, Osun State, has resulted in tragic loss of life and property, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the events that unfolded.
On February 3, 2025, clashes erupted following the controversial appointment of Prince Timileyin Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido Ayegunle.
The unrest began with the Osun State Government’s announcement of Ajayi’s appointment, which many locals viewed as an imposition from outside their community.
Peaknews got informstion from eyewitnesses that armed individuals, allegedly in police uniforms,were seen attacking residents, leading to at least four deaths and numerous injuries among both civilians and police officers.
The Esa Oke Central Union condemned the violence, asserting that appointing a ruler from Ilesa—a neighboring town—threatened their cultural identity.
Chaos ensued when armed assailants opened fire in the community, causing widespread panic and destruction. Footage from the scene depicted bloodshed and vehicles set ablaze near the palace of the Owamiran of Esa Oke.
Reports indicate that seven police officers were injured while attempting to restore order, although conflicting accounts exist regarding civilian casualties.
Hon. Wole Oke, a member of the House of Representatives for Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency and an indigene of Esa Oke, called for calm and condemned the attacks.
He also advocated for an independent panel of inquiry to investigate both immediate and underlying causes of the violence, aiming this will assist the state government in finding a lasting solution.
In a heartfelt address released to Peaknews , Hon. Oke condemned the senseless killings, declaring, “The same blood flows in all of us. Violence is never justified.” He stressed the imperative of identifying and prosecuting perpetrators under the law, calling for an impartial investigation into both the immediate and underlying causes of the incident. “Justice must prevail for the victims and their families,” he demanded.
Community leaders expressed profound sorrow over the events. Oladiti Awodiran, representing the Esa Oke Central Union, emphasized their community’s long-standing resistance to external leadership impositions that disregard local customs.
He also, reiterated calls for an independent investigation into the killings to ensure accountability.
In response to escalating violence, Governor Ademola Adeleke ordered investigations and called for the arrest of those responsible for the unrest.
However, concerns about transparency and accountability have emerged due to law enforcement’s involvement during the clashes.
The situation in Esa Oke underscores significant tensions surrounding traditional leadership appointments in Nigeria.
As demands for justice grow louder, it is crucial for authorities to ensure a fair investigation into these incidents to prevent further violence and restore peace within the community.
Many residents fear that Ajayi’s appointment could disrupt their social fabric, as they believe such significant decisions should reflect their historical practices and involve their consent.
The tragic events highlight an ongoing struggle over traditional leadership and cultural identity across the country.
