The ongoing violence between the Ifon and Ilobu communities in Osun State is deeply troubling and has resulted in significant loss of life and property. The escalation from a land ownership dispute to such widespread destruction and loss of lives underscores the intensity of the conflict. The imposition of a 24-hour curfew is a necessary step to restore order and prevent further violence, especially given the reports of burning houses, casualties, and the displacement of families.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s decision to involve traditional rulers for a peace meeting is a positive move, as local leaders often play a key role in resolving conflicts. The involvement of multiple security agencies, including the military, police, and local forces like Amotekun, is crucial for ensuring strict enforcement of the curfew and maintaining peace in the affected areas.
In these kinds of situations, it’s vital for all parties involved to work toward a peaceful resolution to avoid further suffering for innocent people, especially women and children who are disproportionately affected by such conflicts. Hopefully, the situation can be de-escalated soon, and efforts toward lasting peace can be initiated.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has declared a 24-hour curfew in two local government areas following an ongoing v+olent clash between the Ifon and Ilobu communities.
The dispute, reportedly over land ownership, has escalated into k+llings and destr¥ction. On Friday, three people, including a former councillor, were k+lled, while 30 others sustained gunshot wounds. Women and children have also been displaced due to the violence.
In response, Governor Adeleke initially imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew and summoned the traditional rulers of the warring communities for a peace meeting on Saturday.
However, following the burning of hundreds of houses, the curfew has now been extended to Erin-Osun town and upgraded to a full 24-hour restriction. Osun’s Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the governor’s directive, stating that all security agencies, including the Military, Police, NSCDC, Immigration, NDLEA, and Amotekun, have been ordered to enforce strict compliance with the curfew.
