The Yoruba Union, also known as Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorúbá, has strongly criticized Oba Babatunde Saliu for allegedly attacking and threatening Yoruba individuals in their homeland.
The organization that deals with social and political issues has urged the Police Commissioner of the Lagos State Police Command along with the Inspector General of Police to look into a reported attack on a pregnant woman named Iya Osun Agbebi Adekunle Salawe and other members of her traditional group.
In a statement released to Africa Health Report (AHR) on Tuesday, the convener, Olusola Oluwaseyi Badero, described the monarch’s actions as “barbaric,” particularly in the context of Yoruba land. “We will not tolerate any intimidation, assault, or threats against the Yoruba people in Yoruba land,” Badero asserted.
Badero strongly condemned Oba Babatunde Saliu, stating that he was unworthy of being one of the Yoruba kings due to his actions towards the Yoruba people and traditionalists who have been protecting the land from harm. Badero claimed that thugs, posing as security guards for the monarch, harassed traditionalists, including Iya Osun, on Sunday.
“We will not tolerate the molestation of our people by Oba Babatunde Saliu and his thugs. Based on this, we call on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade, to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure that the monarch is arrested for prosecution,” Badero stated.
Badero further revealed that while the monarch enjoys his life, Akogun Adewale Adekunle, the husband of Iya Osun, has been desperately trying to save his wife, who has been in a coma since the incident. He emphasized the significance of traditionalists as symbols of Yoruba heritage and urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State to investigate the matter thoroughly to prevent chaos.
“We call on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State to thoroughly investigate this matter. He should not allow Oba Babatunde’s actions to incite chaos in Lagos State. All members of the traditionalist community are prepared to pursue justice for Iya Osun through any means necessary,” Badero added.
The Yoruba Union advised traditionalists to be patient and follow legal processes for seeking justice, affirming their commitment to securing justice for the victims using any necessary methods. Badero emphasized the importance of Yoruba people uniting in support of Iya Osun and other traditionalists, both in Nigeria and overseas.
