The people of Ido Ayegunle in Osun State have denied recent allegations of abduction made against their traditional ruler, the Olojudo of Ido Ayegunle, Oba Oluwatimileyi Ajayi.
The community described these claims as “baseless, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to distort the facts and disrupt the town’s peace.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Chairman of the Ido Ayegunle Descendants Union, Paul Alabi, dismissed the accusations regarding the alleged kidnapping of one Abdul Bamigboye, urging the public to disregard what he referred to as a calculated falsehood.
He stated, “We categorically assert that no member of our community, including our respected monarch and his representatives, has been involved in any form of abduction.”
“The circulating reports are a serious misrepresentation of events, seemingly designed to create tension and confusion.”
Alabi explained that the incident in question stems from a long-standing land boundary dispute, which is currently being handled through legal channels and traditional mediation.
He stressed that no one was abducted, detained, or harmed in connection with the disagreement.
He added, “Our community values peace and the rule of law.
“We’ve always preferred dialogue over confrontation. It is unfortunate that certain individuals are spreading fear and misinformation for reasons best known to them.”
He also urged security agencies and media outlets to fact-check thoroughly before sharing potentially inflammatory narratives.
“We are in active communication with relevant authorities and traditional bodies to ensure continued peace in our community.
“This allegation is not only provocative but also an attempt to tarnish the image of the Olojudo and the good name of Ido Ayegunle. We will not tolerate such baseless attacks,” he noted.
He further warned that the community would pursue legal action against those found spreading defamatory or false information.
The union concluded by appealing to the public to remain vigilant, discerning, and responsible in discussions concerning sensitive communal matters.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE