The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has strongly condemned the rising wave of politically motivated killings in his domain, placing curses on those responsible and warning that such individuals would be banished.
The monarch, who spoke during the Obokungbusi Hall of Fame induction ceremony held in Ilesa on Easter Sunday, expressed deep anger over recent security breaches, particularly the killing of three Ijesa indigenes within a short span of three weeks.
Haastrup declared that anyone who orchestrates or participates in violence in the name of politics would not only face exile from Ijesaland but also divine consequences. In a stern pronouncement, he invoked spiritual sanctions, stating that those behind the killings—and even their children—would face the wrath of God wherever they may be.
He described the trend as unacceptable and questioned how many more lives could be lost ahead of the Osun State governorship election slated for August 8, 2026. The traditional ruler criticised politicians who keep their families abroad while fuelling violence at home, insisting that Ijesa lives must not be treated cheaply.
Addressing leaders present at the event, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, the monarch warned that the people of Ijesaland would resist any further attempts to destabilise the region. He stressed that no politician, regardless of influence or status, would be allowed to spill blood for power.
Haastrup reiterated that safeguarding lives and maintaining peace remain central to his role as the paramount ruler. He warned that if another killing occurs, the community would take decisive action, including preventing those responsible from accessing the land during elections.
He also appealed to religious leaders across all faiths to preach peace and discourage their followers from engaging in violence for political purposes.
Earlier, the palace had issued a statement condemning increasing acts of lawlessness in Ijesaland and raised concerns about individuals allegedly linked to unrest. It called on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and urged aggrieved parties to pursue justice through legal means rather than resorting to violence.
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