Hospitalized Osun Monarch Breaks Silence On His Attack, Identifies Orchestrator

The Ajeniju of Halleluyah Community in Osun State, Oba Jelili Olaiya, has narrated his ordeal following a violent attack on his palace by hoodlums last Friday.

The monarch revealed that four individuals, including his wife, sustained injuries during the incident, which he attributed to allegations over the installation of an Imam in his community without the consent of the Ido-Osun Chief Imam.

Speaking from his hospital bed yesterday, Oba Olaiya refuted claims that he installed an Imam on Ido-Osun land, stating that his Halleluyah Community is distinct from Ido-Osun.

According to him, the newly installed Imam only conducted prayers in front of his palace, which is outside the jurisdiction of Ido-Osun.

“The installation was done in front of my palace, where we held our Jumat prayer,” he explained.

“The Chief Imam of Ido-Osun alleged that I built a mosque without his permission, but I clarified to the Divisional Police Officer that there was no new mosque, and my community is not part of Ido-Osun land.”

Oba Olaiya recounted that the attack occurred as the community prepared for prayers. Despite the presence of 18 security personnel, including police officers and members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the hoodlums stormed the palace, leaving him, his wife, and two others severely injured.

He further alleged that the attackers ignored the explanation provided to the police and launched their assault in the presence of the security operatives.

“My wife, a chief, and a senior cleric were among those attacked. The violence was unprovoked, and I call for calm while the government intervenes,” he said.

Oba Olaiya has appealed for enhanced security in the area to prevent further disturbances, urging the authorities to address the underlying issues that triggered the crisis.