There comes a time when silence is no longer an option.
The recent loss of young lives in Esa-Oke should concern every responsible son and daughter of the town, irrespective of political affiliation, social status, religion or personal interest.
Ajayi Aderogba, popularly known as Rogba, was killed on Tuesday night, 23 June 2026. On Wednesday night, 12 August 2026, Dele Ayegbo, reportedly a nephew of Hon. Wole Oke, was killed, while another person was also reportedly shot. On 22 August 2026, another young man, Bidemi, was reportedly killed.
There have been suggestions linking some of these incidents to political conflicts, cultism or other disputes. Whatever the eventual findings may be, those claims should be properly investigated rather than settled through speculation or accusations. What is undeniable, however, is that lives are being lost in Esa-Oke, and something must be done urgently.
The Yoruba proverb says:
“Agba kii wa loja, kori omo tuntun wo.” When elders are present in the marketplace, the head of a newborn should not be allowed to become crooked.
This is therefore a sincere appeal to the elders and leaders of Esa-Oke: please, come together.
Come together not as members of different political parties, but as fathers, mothers, community leaders and custodians of the future of our town. Politics will come and go. Elections will be won and lost. But a life lost can never be restored, and the pain carried by a bereaved family can last for generations.
Our elders must rise above political differences and personal interests to confront this disturbing development. There is an urgent need for a broad community dialogue involving traditional leaders, political leaders across party lines, youth representatives, religious leaders, community associations and security agencies.
Such a meeting should go beyond speeches. We must ask difficult but necessary questions: What is driving our young people towards violence? Are political rivalries becoming dangerous? Is cultism gaining influence among our youths? Are unresolved personal disputes escalating into deadly confrontations? And what can we collectively do to prevent the next tragedy?
The authorities must investigate these killings professionally, transparently and without fear or favour. Anyone found responsible must face the law, regardless of political connection, social standing or affiliation.
But justice alone is not enough. Prevention must become our collective responsibility.
Our youths are not political weapons, and they are not expendable. They are the future professionals, entrepreneurs, parents and leaders of Esa-Oke. Every young life lost is a loss to the entire community.
This is not an accusation against any political party or individual. It is a call for collective responsibility, unity and urgent action.
Esa-Oke has a proud history and people of great distinction. We must not allow our town to become known for the needless loss of young lives.
Enough is enough.
Let our elders speak. Let our leaders listen. Let our youths be heard. Let the authorities act.
Esa-Oke must not lose another life before we find the courage and unity to solve this problem. The time to act is now.
Ogbeni Babajide Alofe, (OBA)
Prodigy Times Media House.
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