Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, visited the communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, which have been affected by deadly communal clashes, vowing to ensure that security agencies identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence.
The governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, conveyed this in a statement released on Monday.
During his visit to the affected areas, Governor Adeleke expressed deep concern over the destruction and assured residents of decisive measures to prevent further unrest. He instructed the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the State Security Service to summon traditional rulers, chiefs, and key stakeholders from the three towns for questioning and to sign a peace accord.
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Additionally, he directed security agencies to locate and arrest those behind the violence, stressing that all perpetrators would be prosecuted without delay.
“This situation is truly distressing,” Governor Adeleke stated. “I appreciate our security forces for restoring order. The 24-hour curfew is in effect, but we must put an end to this needless loss of lives and destruction of properties.”
He also promised that food and relief materials would be distributed through traditional leaders to ensure proper accountability.
“We will ensure those responsible face justice. Monarchs, chiefs, and community leaders will be required to sign peace agreements, and strict measures will be enforced to prevent future conflicts,” he added.
The governor was accompanied by senior security officials and government representatives as he assessed the situation.
It was reported that the renewed conflict between Ifon-Osun and Ilobu communities has displaced many residents and led to widespread destruction, including homes set ablaze.
There are videos showing acts of arson and extensive property damage, with residents criticizing the government for not responding more swiftly to the crisis.
Eyewitnesses revealed that this is the eighth occurrence of the conflict within 18 months, resulting in the deaths of at least 30 people and the destruction of numerous houses, shops, and vehicles.
Among the casualties was a former councillor from Ifon Orolu, identified as Azeez, who was reportedly killed as the long-standing boundary dispute between Ifon and Ilobu communities reignited.
