The Osun State Government has announced a 24-hour curfew in the communities of Ilobu and Ifon to prevent further escalation of recent clashes. The directive, effective immediately, aims to restore law and order in these previously peaceful areas.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, acting in his capacity as the Chief Security Officer of the State, imposed the curfew to safeguard lives and property. The Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, emphasized the need for immediate intervention to prevent the crisis from worsening.
As part of the measures to maintain peace, Governor Adeleke has ordered the immediate takeover of disputed lands by his administration. The directive extends to anyone found engaging in activities on the disputed lands, with strict enforcement of legal consequences.
A statement from the Commissioner further clarified the restrictions on both human and vehicular movements in the affected areas. The Joint Security Task Force, comprising the Nigerian Army, Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, will ensure 24-hour surveillance to uphold lasting peace.
In a related development, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the former governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, have appealed for peace in the midst of the clashes.
Oba Ogunwusi, speaking from his palace in Ile-Ife, urged an end to violence and destruction, emphasizing unity among communities. Similarly, Oyetola, currently the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, stressed the importance of dialogue over violence for the well-being of residents and the state’s stability.
