Two people have allegedly been killed in a dispute over the monarchy in Araromi-Owu, Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State, which has escalated into a crisis within the community.
The situation, which had been brewing since last week, erupted into a full-blown crisis on Tuesday when aggrieved parties set cars on fire.
A resident, Ismail Olaoye, revealed that mercenaries hired by the aggrieved party set up fiery roadblocks to prevent security operatives from entering the town.
It was also reported that hoodlums ambushed security operatives deployed to the community, injuring several personnel.
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that five people have been killed in the crisis. Houses and cars were set ablaze by rampaging hoodlums who claimed that the monarch-designate is not qualified.
“The aggrieved group is laying claim to the throne of the community, despite another person already being appointed and in seclusion. This sparked violent protests for days before it degenerated into a crisis,” the source added.
Confirming the incident, Osun police command spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, said the mobile police force has been deployed to the town along with a special police unit to restore peace.
Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Security, Barrister Samuel Ojo, stated that only two casualties have been recorded, not five as claimed by some sources.
“The crisis would have been more brutal if not for government intervention. We have been managing the situation for five days, and presently, all heads of security outfits in the state are working to restore law and order in the community,” he added.
