Osun monarchs raise alarm over potential unrest, call Adeleke’s attention

Monarchs from three communities in Osun State have raised the alarm over alleged illegal land grabs and unauthorised appointments of village heads in their areas.

The monarchs from different communities which include Idigba, Olorin, and Osuntedo also called on Governor Ademola Adeleke and security agencies to intervene to prevent unrest.

The Olu of Olorin, Oba Abdulyekeen Oyebisi, alleged that the Olu of Songbe, Oba Kamilu Ojelabi, was attempting to annex territories beyond his domain.

While speaking in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Oba Oyebisi emphasised that Olorin remains an autonomous community with its own historical identity.

“We are autonomous and only recognise the Ogiyan of Ejigbo as our paramount ruler,” Oba Oyebisi said.

,,,,,,,,“The actions of Oba Ojelabi are generating tension in the area, and we appeal to the governor and security agencies to act swiftly to prevent communal clashes.”

Highlighting the unique structures of the three communities, Oba Oyebisi stated, “Idigba, Osuntedo, and Olorin are not under Songbe.

Each has its distinct villages – Olorin has four, Osuntedo six, and Idigba about 10. Claims by Oba Ojelabi to our lands are baseless.”

——The monarch accused Oba Ojelabi of spreading misinformation during a radio programme, where he reportedly claimed that over 40 towns, including Olorin, Idigba, and Osuntedo, were under his jurisdiction.

Oba Oyebisi dismissed these statements as false, urging the public to disregard them.

—–In his remarks, the Olosuntedo of Osuntedo, Oba Adeola Akintunde, criticised the illegal appointment of a village head in his domain.

“Oba Ojelabi installed someone to rival me within my community. The situation is creating unnecessary tension, and we call on the authorities to step in immediately,” he said.

——-A representative of the Olu of Idigba, Prince Saheed Amidu-Iseiku, further alleged that Oba Ojelabi had sent surveyors to Imoru village, a part of Idigba’s territory.

“We were informed a few days ago that his people came to survey our land. This is unacceptable,” he stated.

In his response to the accusations, Oba Ojelabi urged his detractors to follow due process, insisting he had done nothing unlawful.

—–“Let them write to the relevant ministry. I have the report of the inquiry that clearly outlines the boundaries. If they have evidence, they should present it,” he said.

He refuted claims of annexation, adding, “I am not fighting anyone. All my actions are within the law, and any grievances should be addressed through proper channels.”

The monarchs have called on Governor Adeleke, the police, and the Department of State Services, DSS, to investigate the matter and prevent any escalation of tensions in the area.

……The situation underscores the need for clarity in boundary and land ownership issues to maintain peace and avoid conflicts among communities in the state.