Panel Formed by Governor Adeleke to Investigate Chieftaincy Crisis in Osun
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has approved the formation of a panel of inquiry to address the ongoing chieftaincy dispute between the towns of Esa-Oke and Ido-Ayegunle in the Obokun Local Government Area. The decision, which was revealed in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, comes in response to violent clashes that erupted after the appointment of a new traditional ruler for the Ido-Ayegunle community.
The panel is expected to examine the root causes of the conflict and offer recommendations for lasting peace between the two towns. Governor Adeleke reiterated his commitment to justice and peace, urging all parties involved to cooperate fully with the inquiry.
“We are committed to ensuring peace and justice. This panel will provide lasting solutions to the crisis,” the governor said through his spokesperson.
The panel will be chaired by Ropo Oyewole, the Special Adviser to the Governor on House of Assembly Matters. Other members include Barrister Samuel Ojo, Special Adviser on Security Matters; M.O. Oyedeji, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Regional Integration; and J. Amusan, Director of Staff Welfare, Public Service Office. Mrs. Adeola Ajekigbe, Deputy Director of Chieftaincy Affairs in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, will serve as the panel’s secretary.
The inquiry follows the violent incidents that unfolded after the Osun State Executive Council approved Prince Oluwatimileyin Oluyemi Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunle on January 30, 2025. The violence, which resulted from tensions between the two communities, has sparked widespread concern.
The panel’s terms of reference include investigating the immediate and remote causes of the crisis, evaluating the damages, and recommending remedial actions. They will also explore strategies to ensure lasting peace in the region. The panel is expected to submit its findings within two weeks of its inauguration.
The inauguration of the panel will take place on March 4, 2025, at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Osogbo, according to the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dosu Babatunde. He expressed confidence that the panel would carry out its duties diligently and fairly, with the goal of resolving the conflict in the best interest of both communities.
Previously, Oba Adeyemi Adediran, the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, had urged Governor Adeleke to honor his promise of setting up a panel to investigate the crisis, which was sparked by a land dispute between the communities. Adediran voiced concern about the delay in establishing the panel, which has left the situation unresolved and tense.
Bamigbeyi Aremu, Chairman of the Esa-Oke Central Union, also expressed frustration over the delay, urging Governor Adeleke to act swiftly to prevent further escalation. Aremu accused the leadership of Ido-Ayegunle, led by Baale Timileyin Ajayi, of continuing to harass Esa-Oke farmers, heightening tensions between the communities.
With the panel’s inauguration now set, all eyes are on the inquiry to provide answers and a way forward for the warring communities.
