On Thursday, people and traditional leaders from Osogbo filled the streets of the capital of Osun state to demonstrate against what they claimed was an attempt by the state government to remove Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, the Ataoja of Osogbo.
The chiefs include community leaders, village leaders, market leaders, young people, and women. Before heading back to Ataoja’s palace, they meet up at Jimoh Buraimoh’s house in the Odi-Olowo neighborhood and drive to the Government Secretariat.
Speaking to reporters during the demonstration, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, Chairman of Heads of Communities and Head of Gbodofon Community, pleaded with the state government to refrain from causing confusion and turmoil in Osogbob with the alleged attempt to depose the monarch.
“It is to be noted that we cannot accept this unlawful attempt which will portray Osun State Government as highly insensitive and blind to the yearnings and aspirations of the people of Osun State.
“The institution of Ataoja of Osogboland is the custodian of our traditional heritage. Attempt to illegally remove the occupant of the exalted office is an affront on our traditional inheritance which shall be resisted legally.
“The people of Osogbo will not allow this to happen and they are ready to resist this insult and blatant conspiracy to cause disunity, chaos, violence and disharmony among the good people of Osogbo and Osun State generally.
“The good people of Osogbo are peace loving and they cannot allow anything that is capable of destroying the existing peace being enjoyed in Osogbo and its environment”
Adegboyega Oyetola, the state governor, claimed in a statement released through his spokesperson Ismail Omipidan that those propagating the rumors are attempting to turn the community against him by claiming that Ataoja of Osogbo will be deposed.
“Ordinarily, the Ataoja is directly under the supervision of the Osogbo Local Government. Therefore, the governor has no business per se with his office. Besides, the governor has no issues with Ataoja,” he stated.
