Osun Monarch Decries Assault in Presence of Security Operatives

Ajenuiju of Halleluyah beaten by Youths in his own palace
He said he was beaten despite the security operatives being present
Police, NSCDC yet to comment on the issue

The Ajeniju of Halleluyah, Oba Jelili Olaiya, has expressed outrage after being assaulted by youths in his palace, despite the presence of law enforcement officers.

The incident, linked to a dispute over the appointment of a Chief Imam, has left the traditional ruler and his community in shock.

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Speaking to reporters, Oba Olaiya recounted how the unrest began last Friday, following his installation of a Chief Imam near his palace, which doubles as a makeshift mosque. Some residents opposed the move, claiming it should have been sanctioned by the Chief Imam of Ido-Osun.

“The police were aware of the situation before the attack,” Olaiya stated. “Officers from the Divisional Police Office in Ido-Osun and the state’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit were sent to my palace. They asked about the rumors that I had installed an Imam and built a mosque, and I clarified that the installation was done on my land, not Ido-Osun’s.”

Despite the police presence, hoodlums reportedly stormed the palace around 11 a.m., vandalizing property, disrupting the Jumat service, and assaulting the monarch.

“There were about 18 security operatives on-site, including officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), yet the attackers acted with impunity,” he lamented.

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Efforts to reach the police and NSCDC for comments have so far been unsuccessful. The monarch, however, emphasized that the land on which the Imam was installed is not part of Ido-Osun, disputing claims that he violated traditional protocols.

The violent episode has raised concerns over the ability of security agencies to maintain law and order in the area. The monarch urged the authorities to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.