Osun Communal Clash: Seven Officers Possibly Shot in Escalating Conflict
A violent communal clash erupted in Esa-Oke, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, resulting in the shooting of seven police officers and the deaths of at least four individuals. The conflict is reportedly linked to disputes over the appointment of a new monarch for the neighboring Ido-Ajegunle community.
The Osun State Government recently appointed Prince Timileyin Ajayi as the Olojudo of Ido-Ajegunle, a decision that has been met with resistance from some residents of Esa-Oke. They argue that the newly appointed monarch is not indigenous to their community, leading to heightened tensions.
According to Yemisi Opalola, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, the injured officers were ambushed while responding to the unrest. She stated, “Seven police operatives were shot. One of them was hit in the neck. They were going to Esa-Oke when they ran into a barricade. They alighted and were removing the barricade when some people started firing at them.”
In response to the escalating violence, the state government has deployed additional security personnel to the area to restore peace and order. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attacks.