Osun Monarch Attacked By Youths Over Controversial Imam Installation

Tension erupted in the Hallelujah community of Egbedore Local Government Area, Osun State, on Friday as angry youths attacked the newly installed Ajeniju of Hallelujah, Oba Jelili Olaiya, over his decision to appoint a Chief Imam in the disputed community.

Oba Olaiya, who was installed by the Timi of Ede months ago, faced backlash from the Ido-Osun community, which claims jurisdiction over the area.

The crisis intensified when the monarch conducted a jumat service at his palace after appointing Ahmad Tijjani as Chief Imam of Hallelujah.

Eyewitnesses reported that youths allegedly from Ido-Osun stormed the palace during the prayer session, accusing the monarch of overstepping his authority.

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The mob vandalized the palace and physically attacked Oba Olaiya, leaving him with serious injuries before security forces intervened.

A source revealed, “It was a chaotic scene. The youths vandalized the palace and assaulted the monarch, who had to be rescued by security operatives.”

Oba Olaiya was reportedly taken to the Osun State University Teaching Hospital in Osogbo for treatment, while security operatives transferred him to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation and safety.

Confirming the incident, the Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Security, Hon. Samuel Ojo, stated that the government would await the outcome of an investigation before making any comment.