Culture
Residents of Iyin-Ekiti Petition Gov. Oyebanji Over Alleged Seizure of Goats
… Watch Video Inside Story as Residents Speaks
By Joseph Sunday
Tension is brewing in Iyin-Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, following allegations that goats belonging to residents were seized and taken to the palace of the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeniyi Adeola Ajakaye.
The affected residents, identified as Mr. Nureni Ademola, Mrs. Zainab, Mrs. Ibrahim Olayinka, Mrs. Yemi and Mrs. Memunat, have appealed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to intervene and investigate the matter.
According to the petitioners, the animals were picked up from different parts of the town on the directive of persons allegedly linked to the palace, and their whereabouts have since become unclear.
Narrating her experience, Mrs. Ibrahim Olayinka said her goats went missing in December 2024. After weeks of searching, she claimed she traced one of the goats to a buyer who allegedly told her he purchased it from the palace, with the proceeds meant for community development.
She said when she approached the palace and met with Chief Asolo, she was told that the monarch and community leaders had agreed that stray animals roaming the town would be sold and the money channeled into development projects.
Olayinka described the loss as a major blow to her livelihood, as rearing goats remains a key source of income for her family.
In a similar account, Mrs. Oyewumi Morenike alleged that her goat disappeared in February and was later found tied within the palace premises. She claimed she was made to pay N20,000 as a “bail” fee before the animal was released to her.
Mrs. Memunat also alleged she paid the same amount to secure the release of her goat after it was reportedly taken to the palace.
The residents are now calling on Governor Oyebanji and relevant authorities to probe the alleged seizure, sale and release of livestock for a fee, and to clarify whether any formal community resolution authorizes such action.
They warned that confiscating livestock under the guise of community development poses a threat to their means of livelihood and urged government to act swiftly to prevent further escalation.
More details later.
Credit: Matured Minds Digital Radio
