Oba Jelili Olaiya Opens Up on Violent Attack on His Palace in Osun State
The Ajeniju of Halleluyah Community in Osun State, Oba Jelili Olaiya, has shared his harrowing experience following a violent attack on his palace by hoodlums last Friday. The attack, which resulted in injuries to four individuals, including the monarch’s wife, has raised serious concerns regarding the security of traditional leaders in the region.
Oba Olaiya, speaking from his hospital bed on Sunday, denied allegations that he installed an Imam on Ido-Osun land without permission from the Ido-Osun Chief Imam. He clarified that his Halleluyah Community is distinct from Ido-Osun, and the Imam’s installation ceremony took place solely in front of his palace, where the community gathered for Friday prayers.
“There was no new mosque built in our community, and I did not install the Imam on Ido-Osun land. We simply held our Jumat prayer in front of my palace. The Chief Imam of Ido-Osun misunderstood the situation and made false claims, but I clarified everything to the police,” Oba Olaiya explained.
The attack occurred just as the community was preparing for prayers, with 18 security personnel, including police officers and members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), stationed at the palace. Despite the security presence, hoodlums stormed the palace, assaulting Oba Olaiya, his wife, and two others.
“The attackers were relentless, even though they were confronted with our explanation and the presence of the police. My wife, a chief, and a senior cleric were among the victims of this unprovoked violence. I urge the government to intervene and restore peace to our community,” the monarch said.
Oba Olaiya also called for improved security measures in the area to prevent further violence, urging the authorities to address the underlying issues that led to the unrest.
In response to the incident, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke issued a strong condemnation of the youth groups involved in the attack and the subsequent destruction of the Oba’s palace. The Governor ordered security agencies to track down those responsible for the violence and bring them to justice. The government’s swift action aims to prevent future disturbances and uphold peace in the region.
