The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, has warned politicians operating within his domain to desist from acts of violence, particularly killings linked to political activities.
Oba Haastrup issued the warning on Tuesday during the induction ceremony of the maiden Obokungbusi Hall of Fame, an initiative designed to honour distinguished Ijesa indigenes for their global contributions.
While addressing attendees at the event, the traditional ruler expressed deep concern over what he described as an alarming rise in politically motivated killings in Ijesaland.
He disclosed that at least three Ijesa men had been killed within one month in incidents allegedly connected to campaigns ahead of the forthcoming August election.
He described the situation as unacceptable and indicative of a dangerous drift towards lawlessness in the region.
“For politicians keeping their children abroad and slaughtering my people like chickens is unacceptable.
“Within a month, you have killed three of my sons; how many will you kill by August?” The monarch queried.
He questioned the rationale behind the violence, asking, “Why will you turn Nigeria back to the barbaric age of the 1960s?”
The monarch warned that any politician found culpable in the killing of Ijesa indigenes would face severe consequences, including possible banishment from the land.
“I will mobilise Ijesas to banish any criminal-turned-politician who kills any Ijesa. Ijesas are no chickens, and it will not happen under my watch without grave consequences. Enough is enough,” he added.
Oba Haastrup also called on religious leaders across churches, mosques and traditional worship centres to intensify advocacy against political violence among their followers.
The warning comes amid growing concern over insecurity in Ijesaland, particularly in Ilesa, where recent incidents of violence have led to loss of lives.
The Osun State Police Command had earlier confirmed the arrest of five suspected cultists following a violent clash in the Adeti area of Ilesa involving rival groups.
Police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi stated that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects linked to the incident, assuring residents of continued security operations in the area.
