The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Adesuyi Haastrup, has issued a strong warning to politicians in Osun State, calling for an immediate end to rising violence linked to political activities in Ijesaland.
The monarch spoke on Tuesday during the induction ceremony of the maiden Obokungbusi Hall of Fame, an event created to honour notable sons and daughters of Ijesaland who have made meaningful contributions both in Nigeria and abroad.
While the ceremony was meant to celebrate achievement and unity, Oba Haastrup used the platform to address what he described as a troubling increase in politically motivated killings in the region.
Speaking before a gathering of community leaders, dignitaries, and residents, the monarch expressed deep concern over recent incidents of violence.
He revealed that at least three Ijesa men had been killed within one month in attacks believed to be connected to political campaigns ahead of the August election in Osun State.
The monarch described the situation as unacceptable and dangerous, warning that it signals a growing breakdown of law and order.
“For politicians keeping their children abroad and slaughtering my people like chickens is unacceptable,” he said.
“Within a month, you have killed three of my sons; how many will you kill by August?” he asked.
His remarks were met with serious attention from attendees, many of whom share concerns about security in the area.
Oba Haastrup also warned against a return to the violent political culture that marked parts of Nigeria’s history, especially during the early years after independence.
“Why will you turn Nigeria back to the barbaric age of the 1960s?” he asked.
The 1960s in Nigeria were marked by intense political rivalry, violence, and instability, particularly in the Western Region. That period eventually contributed to military intervention and long years of military rule.
By referencing that era, the monarch stressed the importance of peaceful political engagement and the need to avoid repeating past mistakes.
In one of his strongest statements, the monarch warned that any politician found responsible for violence or killings in Ijesaland would face serious consequences.
He said such individuals could be banished from the land, a traditional sanction that carries both cultural and social weight.
“I will mobilize Ijesas to banish any criminal-turned-politician who kills any Ijesa,” he declared.
“Ijesas are no chickens, and it will not happen under my watch without grave consequences. Enough is enough.”
Traditional rulers in many parts of Nigeria still play an important role in maintaining peace and order within their communities. While they do not have formal political power, their influence remains strong, especially in rural areas.
The monarch also called on religious leaders to take an active role in discouraging violence.
He urged leaders in churches, mosques, and traditional worship centers to speak openly against political killings and educate their followers on the importance of peace.
Religion plays a central role in Nigerian society, and religious leaders are often seen as moral voices in their communities. Their involvement, observers say, could help reduce tension and promote peaceful participation in the electoral process.
The warning comes at a time of increasing concern about insecurity in Ijesaland, particularly in Ilesa, a major town in the region.
Recent incidents of violence, including clashes between suspected cult groups, have raised fears among residents.
The Osun State Police Command recently confirmed the arrest of five suspected cultists following a violent clash in the Adeti area of Ilesa.
According to police spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi, the clash involved rival groups and led to disturbances in the area.
He said efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects connected to the incident and assured residents that security operations have been intensified.
Election-related violence has been a recurring issue in Nigeria, especially during highly contested polls.
In many cases, clashes between supporters of rival political parties have led to injuries, loss of lives, and destruction of property.
Security agencies and electoral bodies have repeatedly called for peaceful conduct, but challenges remain, particularly at the local level.
Osun State, like many others, has experienced tense elections in the past. As the next election approaches, there are growing concerns that similar incidents could occur if preventive measures are not taken.
Many residents of Ijesaland have welcomed the monarch’s intervention, describing it as timely and necessary.
Community leaders say the strong warning could serve as a deterrent to politicians who might consider using violence to gain advantage.
They also stressed the need for collaboration between traditional institutions, security agencies, and political actors to ensure a peaceful election.
With the August election drawing closer, attention is now focused on how stakeholders will respond to the growing concerns.
The role of traditional rulers like Oba Haastrup, alongside security agencies and religious leaders, is expected to be crucial in maintaining peace.
For now, the message from Ijesaland is clear: violence will not be tolerated, and those who engage in it risk serious consequences.
As the state prepares for the polls, residents hope that the coming months will be marked by peaceful campaigns and a credible election process, rather than fear and bloodshed.