Oyo @ 50: Insecurity, Kingship Crisis Overshadow Iresa-Adu

As Oyo State marks its 50th anniversary, residents of Iresa-Adu, a strategic border town in Surulere Local Government Area, say the celebration is being dampened by growing insecurity and the prolonged absence of a traditional ruler.

For nearly nine years, the town has been without a recognised monarch, a situation locals say has weakened traditional authority and community cohesion. Residents also expressed concern over rising security threats, especially following recent incidents across the state.

Tension heightened after forest guards were reportedly killed by unknown assailants in nearby Oloka town. In response, the Oyo State Police Command announced the arrest of two suspected cattle rustlers in Iresa-Adu, a development that has further drawn attention to the fragile security situation in border communities.

Community leaders warn that unless decisive steps are taken to address insecurity and resolve the lingering kingship dispute, towns like Iresa-Adu may continue to face instability despite the state’s golden jubilee celebration.