On the evening of Friday, 3rd January, chaos erupted in the Hallelujah community, situated in the Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State, when angry youths attacked the newly installed Ajeniju of Hallelujah, Oba Jelili Olaiya, as he attempted to lead the community in Jumat prayers.
The violence stemmed from long-standing opposition to the monarch’s installation. The youths, who claimed that Oba Olaiya had been appointed by the Timi of Ede several months ago against the wishes of the local community, had been preparing for a confrontation. They argued that the Ajeniju had no authority to appoint a chief imam for the area.
The unrest began when the newly appointed Chief Imam of Hallelujah, Ahmad Tijjani, tried to gather residents at the Ajeniju’s palace for Friday prayers. His efforts were met with fierce resistance, particularly from youths in the community, including those from Ido-Osun, who opposed the monarch’s actions. The situation quickly escalated when the youths attacked the imam and disrupted the prayers, loudly questioning the monarch’s authority to appoint an imam and conduct prayers in an area they believed fell under the jurisdiction of another ruler.
Eyewitnesses reported that the Ajeniju was severely beaten during the altercation, and his palace was vandalised by the furious mob. It was only when security forces arrived that the situation was brought under control and the monarch was rescued.
A security source, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the incident, stating that violence erupted after the youths from Ido-Osun strongly opposed the Ajeniju’s decision to appoint an imam at the palace.
As a result of the attack, Oba Olaiya sustained significant injuries. He was subsequently taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for medical treatment and to ensure his safety while investigations into the incident continue.
