Promote peace and development, not violence: Ede Elders urge politicians

Politicians in Ede, Osun State, have been urged to prioritise lasting peace and competitive development for the greater transformation of the ancient city, rather than pursuing self-serving agendas.

This appeal was made by Alhaji Sulaimon Ademola Adebayo, President of the Ede Elders Council (Igbimo Agbaagba Omo Ilu Ede), in the aftermath of a recent confrontation between different political stakeholders.

Alhaji Adebayo emphasised that good leadership requires sacrifice, tolerance of political differences, forbearance, and the rejection of violence.

He made the remarks during a parley with various political groups following a recent dispute triggered by conflicting interests in the establishment of a project, which nearly led to a breakdown of law and order in the city. Ede is traditionally renowned for its serenity and unity.

In a statement issued by the Director of Publicity of the Ede Elders Council, Chief Dr Ayodele Adeyemo, the elders unanimously reminded the feuding parties that the popular adage “yara kan soso ni Ede” (meaning Ede people are naturally bonded and inseparable) is not mere coincidence but a deeply rooted traditional reality.

The council frowned at the misuse and indiscreet use of social media to fan the embers of discord or tarnish the reputation of innocent individuals.

Alhaji Adebayo further stated that the immediate concern of Ede citizens should be how to support the many households recently devastated by windstorms, which left numerous residents homeless. He appealed to individuals, government agencies—particularly NEMA and OSEMA—and other stakeholders to come to the aid of the rainstorm victims by providing relief materials and essential support.

He urged politicians and Ede indigenes worldwide to mobilise donations and necessary items to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the natural disaster.

Leaders of the two groups, Hon. Adeyemi Elliott and Hon. Lukman Afolabi, commended the noble and fatherly intervention of the Ede Elders Council. They assured that, with the prompt guidance of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa I, Timi of Edeland, and the well-meaning elders, peace and tranquillity in the city would be jointly protected and sustained.

The political leaders also pledged to conduct a comprehensive assessment of properties destroyed by the recent tornado, with the aim of presenting the victims’ plight to relevant agencies at both federal and state government levels for urgent intervention.