NIGERIA: Tensions Erupt In Osun As Youths Raze Monarch’s Palace Over Religious Dispute

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has condemned the violent actions of youths who attacked the Ajeniju of Hallelujah, Oba Jelili Olaiya, and razed parts of his palace on Friday, warning that lawlessness will not be tolerated under his administration.

The unrest reportedly stemmed from the monarch’s installation of a Chief Imam for his community in December 2024, a move that angered some youths from the neighboring Ido-Osun community, who claimed territorial jurisdiction over the area.

The protest escalated into violence, leaving Oba Olaiya injured and his palace in ruins.

Reports revealed that the youths stormed the palace, vandalised property, and clashed with residents, prompting a swift response from security agencies, who have since secured the premises.

Images from the aftermath showed broken chairs and debris strewn across a hall within the palace.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke expressed dismay over the incident, describing it as a reckless act of self-help.

He directed the State Commissioner of Police to apprehend the perpetrators and restore calm to the area.

The governor also called on the Olojudo of Ido-Osun, Oba Olayinka Oyetunde, to rein in the aggrieved youths, emphasising the need for dialogue over violence.

“Resorting to violence to resolve communal disputes is unacceptable, and those found culpable will face the full wrath of the law,” Adeleke said.

In addition to deploying law enforcement, the governor instructed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon.

Dosu Babatunde, to initiate peace-building efforts and conflict de-escalation in collaboration with security agencies.

Adeleke reminded all communities in the state that grievances must be addressed through appropriate government channels, not through destruction and chaos.

“We will not tolerate violence under any guise. The law is clear, and violators will be held accountable,” he warned.