Ekiti Community Protests Over Rising Deaths, Insecurity, and Alleged Traditional Lapses

Residents of Iloro Ekiti in Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State staged a protest on Sunday, voicing deep concerns over persistent community challenges, including a spate of premature deaths, rising insecurity, and perceived stagnation.

Carrying leaves and chanting traditional songs, protesters of various ages marched through the town’s quarters. They highlighted several alarming trends, such as weekly deaths of young people and a recent surge in kidnapping cases, which they said were previously uncommon.

Many protesters linked these issues to the installation of the current traditional ruler, Oba Olufemi Olugbesoye. They alleged that his coronation by the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti violated longstanding customs and traditional rites. They claim this deviation has angered the gods and ancestors, leading to the community’s misfortunes.

The demonstrators called on Governor Biodun Oyebanji to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure a new king is installed according to the people’s wishes.

Prince Arowolo Babatunde, from the Arowolo ruling house, echoed these concerns, citing a leadership vacuum. He raised security alarms, noting the arrest of a former Boko Haram escapee in the community last year and expressing worry over the unchecked influx of strangers. He also alleged that royal family farmland had been leased for cannabis cultivation.

The protest was monitored by heavy security presence to maintain order.

In his response, Oba Olugbesoye dismissed the protest as sponsored and unrepresentative. He denied allegations of poor development, listing achievements during his reign, including the establishment of a private university, his promotion to a Grade A Oba, improved infrastructure, and hosting a Local Council Development Area headquarters.

The monarch also refuted claims about security threats, stating that recent security sweeps found no illegal activity. He maintained that the allegations are aimed at discrediting him.

Regarding his installation, Oba Olugbesoye noted that the matter is already before a court and declined further comment to avoid contempt. He urged the protesters to await the judicial outcome.