The Elepe of Epe Ekiti, Oba Ayodeji Williams Adesoye, has been forced to flee his palace following protests by residents over allegations that he used a traditional spiritual curse, known as Afose, against his subjects.
On social media, the irate protesting residents of Epe Ekiti under Ijero Local Government, were seen causing and walking the monarch away from the palace. They also seize the official car of the monarch.
The 36-year-old monarch was installed in November, 2020, by the former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr John Kayode Fayemi.
The unrest began after a land dispute in the community, which escalated when the monarch allegedly invoked Afose, a potent spiritual force believed in Yoruba tradition to make spoken words or curses manifest. Residents described the act as a grave taboo and have accused the Elepe of causing harm and instability in Epe Ekiti.
Angry community members stormed the palace, demanding the immediate dethronement of the king. Protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until the issue is resolved, citing the need for justice and the restoration of peace in the town.
The crisis has drawn widespread concern, with calls for intervention from both the state government and the traditional council to mediate the conflict and restore order.
Attempts to reach the palace for comment were unsuccessful, and it remains unclear where Oba Adesoye has relocated following the protest.
The situation underscores growing tensions between traditional authority and community rights in parts of Ekiti State, highlighting the deep cultural significance of traditional spiritual practices like Afose in Yoruba society.
