Residents of Ikoyi-Ile in Oyo State under the umbrella of Ikoyi National Descendants Group have accused the Soun of Ogbomoso of allegedly masterminding a violent attack youths who were on a peaceful protest following controversy over his planned visit to the community.
According to a statement by Prince Soliu Ayinde and other representatives, the incident, which reportedly stated at about 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, has heightened tensions in the town, with several youths said to have sustained various levels of injury
According to the statement youths and other groups in Ikoyi-Ile had earlier petitioned the Governor of Oyo State and other relevant authorities to stop the monarch’s visit, citing cultural and traditional concerns.
They argued that the town is currently without a reigning Onikoyi, and that it is considered an abormination for another traditional ruler to enter the Onikoyi’s territory during such an interregnum.
Despite the objections, the residents alleged that the Soun insisted on proceeding with the visit and, in advance, allegedly deployed hoodlums to disrupt a peaceful protest staged by the youths.
“The hoodlums shot indiscriminately at the protesting youths, and several persons sustained gunshot injuries,” the statement claimed, adding that the victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Ikoyi-Ile for medical treatment.
The residents further alleged that the planned visit, which included a proposed town hall meeting over Soun’s 25-year developmental vision for Ogbomoso, was subsequently cancelled at short notice following strong resistance from the community.
They described the alleged attack as “unwarranted and condemnable,” expressing disappointment over what they termed an attempt to intimidate the community.
While acknowledging the indefinite postponement of the visit, the residents warned that any future attempt to reschedule it may be resisted, insisting that no date would be acceptable under the current circumstances.
They also called on law enforcement agencies to investigate the attack and prevent any recurrence of violence, while commending the youths and residents for remaining law- abiding despite the reported injuries.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Soun of Ogbomoso or his palace regarding the allegations.
