- A PDP councillor is being investigated for alleged death threats.
- The threats are linked to a chieftaincy dispute in Iresa-Adu town.
- An interview sparked the controversy, implicating a State Commissioner.
- Tensions are high, with accusations of political interference.
- The case highlights the complexities of traditional leadership in Nigeria.
Councillor Under Scrutiny: What’s the Fuss?
The Nigeria Police are digging into claims that Mr. Adeniran Nelson, a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) councillor in Oyo State, made death threats. These allegations come from residents of Iresa-Adu town in the Surulere Local Government Area, who say they’ve been intimidated following an interview posted on social media by Iresa TV.
The Interview That Ignited the Fire
The interview featured Pa Julius Olanipekun, the Mogaji of the Emiolu Ruling House, discussing the long-standing chieftaincy dispute over the Aresa-Adu of Iresa-Adu throne. Iresa TV, which aims to promote the town’s cultural heritage, maintains that the interview was within their rights under Nigeria’s Freedom of Information and Freedom of Expression laws. The interview, which was released in May 2025, can still be seen as a cached version. The Internet Archive offers services like the Wayback Machine, which can display cached versions of content that is no longer readily available.
Commissioner’s Alleged Involvement
Pa Olanipekun voiced concerns about sabotage within the Emiolu family, specifically naming “Lasun Olaleye.” This name is closely associated with Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the Oyo State Commissioner of Agriculture, who also hails from the Emiolu family and is reportedly a contender for the disputed throne since 2019. Supporters of the Commissioner have allegedly responded with online and physical threats against Iresa TV management and staff.
Family Feud and Court Battles
The Emiolu family is currently locked in a legal battle with Prince Adeyeye Oyerinde, who also claims the right to be Aresa-Adu of Iresa-Adu. According to Pa Olanipekun, some family members disrupted the case’s final hearing on April 30, 2025, by introducing a new lawyer and filing new motions, causing further delays. Court documents show additional claimants, including Lafenwa Popoola, Timothy Tuwagun, Kola Oladipo, and Oladele Olaleye, alleging they were unaware of the ongoing case that began in August 2024.
Stalled Progress: Seven Years Without a King
Prince Tunwagun pointed out that Oladele Olaleye is a brother to Commissioner Olaleye, suggesting the Commissioner’s involvement in stalling the case. “It’s been almost seven years without a king. The family is fed up, the kingmakers are fed up, and Iresa-Adu town is fed up. That’s why our Mogaji has been forced to speak publicly,” Tunwagun stated.
Flashback: Commissioner’s Previous Role
Notably, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye previously served as Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs from 2022 to 2023 but failed to resolve the Aresa-Adu dispute during his tenure. Prince Oladipupo commented, “Lasun was the Commissioner and couldn’t solve this. The recent actions of his brother and others reinforce long-held suspicions about his role.”
Legal Battles and Online Reactions
The Emiolu family is represented by Chief Michael Lana, former Oyo State Attorney General, in the Ibadan High Court. The family lost a related case, HOI/4/2019, in March 2023, coinciding with Governor Makinde’s re-election. The interview has sparked strong reactions, particularly due to Pa Olanipekun’s mention of “Lasun Olaleye,” leading to online defenses and threats from Commissioner Olaleye’s supporters.
Police Investigation and Rising Tensions
The Iresa-Adu Ward Councillor, Nelson Adeniran, is now under police investigation for allegedly threatening the lives of Iresa TV staff and residents, purportedly to protect Commissioner Olaleye. Police are investigating further threats connected to this dispute as tensions continue to escalate in Iresa-Adu.
The Bigger Picture: Chieftaincy Disputes in Nigeria
Chieftaincy disputes are not uncommon in Nigeria. They often involve complex issues of lineage, tradition, and political influence. These disputes can lead to significant unrest and require careful management by both local and state authorities. Understanding the intricacies of these disputes requires knowledge of traditional governance structures, the roles of various stakeholders, and the legal frameworks in place to resolve conflicts. It’s a delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and ensuring justice and stability.
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