The Osun State government has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the ongoing conflict between the Ilobu and Ifon Orolu communities, stating that the curfew in place will remain until lasting peace is achieved.
The curfew, which runs from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., was imposed last Thursday by Governor Ademola Adeleke following renewed violence between the two communities. The clashes led to injuries and the death of a polytechnic student in Ilobu, prompting the deployment of security forces, including the Army, Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to restore order.
On Sunday, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security, Samuel Ojo, reported that calm had largely returned to the affected areas. However, Ojo emphasized that the government is focused on a thorough approach to resolving the conflict and preventing future violence.
“For now, both communities have laid down their arms, and the government is working diligently to facilitate dialogue between them,” Ojo said. “A powerful committee, made up of key stakeholders from both communities, including their monarchs and representatives from the state government and judiciary, will soon be announced to propose lasting solutions.”
Regarding the curfew, Ojo said, “The curfew will not be lifted at this time. It will be reconsidered only after the committee is in place and we are confident that peace has been fully restored. Until then, the curfew remains in effect.”
Meanwhile, the World Institute for Peace, a non-governmental organization, has called on the Osun State government to focus more on addressing the root causes of the conflict.
In a statement issued Sunday, Executive Director Lamina Kamiludeen expressed concern over the recurring violence, attributing it to a lack of effective mediation and engagement following previous disputes.
“It is clear that the Osun State government has the authority and resources to intervene effectively,” Kamiludeen said. “We urge the government to establish a robust peace-building committee that includes experts in conflict resolution, security, and humanitarian affairs, rather than relying on politically connected individuals who may not have the expertise needed to mediate effectively.”
The organization also called for proactive steps to address the underlying issues driving the conflict, urging the government to act decisively to ensure long-term peace in both Ilobu and Ifon Orolu.
