Concerned youths from Ipele, in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, have petitioned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, raising serious allegations against the Olupele of Ipele, Oba Samuel Oluwashola Adesanmi Daramola. The youths claim the monarch’s actions are undermining community security and traditional administration.

The petition, dated January 2026, commended the state government’s response to the New Year’s Eve attack on Ipele Police Station on December 31, 2025, but expressed concern over the Olupele’s frequent absences and controversial conduct since ascending the throne just over a year ago.

According to the letter, the monarch “has not for once stayed in Ipele for one month at a stretch” and spends significant time in Lagos and the United Kingdom, which reportedly weakens collaboration between security agencies and the community.

The youths further alleged that Oba Daramola is at odds with local youths and elites, and that this tension has hindered socio-economic development in Ipele. Accusations included financial impropriety, market revenue disputes, and personal misconduct, including claims of threatening a woman to abort a pregnancy.

Security concerns were emphasized, with the petitioners alleging that the monarch parades armed men and fires shots at his palace, creating fear among residents. A palace party on New Year’s Eve reportedly involved hooded gunmen firing sporadically, just hours before the attack on the police station, suggesting a possible link.

The youths called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to launch a full-scale investigation and caution the Olupele to prevent further disturbances. Copies of the petition were sent to the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, state police command, and the Department of State Services (DSS).

On December 31, 2025, armed men stormed Ipele, attacking and burning the Divisional Police Station. Witnesses reported that 20–30 gunmen overwhelmed local security, causing widespread panic, forcing residents to flee, and disrupting New Year’s Eve church services.