In a bid to restore calm and normalcy to Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced a reduction in the curfew imposed following the violent communal clashes over land disputes. Effective immediately, the curfew will now run for 12 hours daily, down from the 17-hour curfew that was earlier implemented to curb the violence. This move comes as peace gradually returns to the affected communities.
Governor Adeleke’s decision was conveyed through a statement from Kolapo Alimi, the State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment. The governor attributed the easing of the curfew to the improved security situation and the gradual stabilization of the three communities, which were rocked by violent clashes in recent weeks.
The statement emphasized that the relaxation of the curfew was intended to allow normal activities to resume while still ensuring public safety. The move also takes into consideration the need for students to be able to sit for important exams like the WAEC, NECO, and JAMB, which were previously hindered by the restrictions.
The ongoing conflict in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun was sparked by long-standing land disputes between the communities, leading to violent clashes that claimed lives and left many others injured. The crisis, which began in late 2024, saw residents of the affected communities locked in violent confrontations, with property destroyed and several lives lost. The escalation of the conflict prompted the state government to impose a curfew in an effort to restore peace and order.
The initial curfew, which lasted for 17 hours daily, was aimed at limiting the movement of people in the affected areas and preventing further violence. However, this measure also caused significant disruption to the daily lives of residents, particularly students and traders who rely on the market to make a living. As a result, the state government sought to gradually ease the curfew as security improved.
Governor Adeleke has made it clear that his administration is committed to restoring lasting peace in these communities. He expressed his satisfaction with the efforts of the traditional rulers and community leaders in the affected areas, noting that they had played a significant role in promoting peace among their subjects. The governor also praised the cooperation of the local residents in working together for a peaceful resolution.
“Now that peace is gaining the centre stage on a daily basis, it gladdens my heart as the Governor and Chief Security Officer of Osun State to announce the relaxation of the curfew earlier imposed on Ifon-Ilobu-Erin Osun communities from 17 hours to 12 hours daily,” Governor Adeleke said in his statement. “I am reaffirming my commitment to do everything morally and officially possible at my executive disposal to bring the communal fracas in the three communities to an amicable end.”
The governor also highlighted the importance of the 100-member expanded peace committee that was set up in the aftermath of the crisis. He called on the committee to expedite their work and recommend a lasting solution to the ongoing disputes. Governor Adeleke expressed his expectation that the committee’s recommendations would address the root causes of the conflicts and help prevent future violence.
One of the key points Governor Adeleke raised in his statement was the role of the traditional rulers in the affected communities. He acknowledged that the monarchs had been instrumental in encouraging peace and harmony among their people, and he called on them to continue in their efforts. The involvement of traditional rulers is seen as crucial in maintaining peace, as they hold significant influence in their communities.
The statement also encouraged all stakeholders, including community leaders, youth groups, and residents, to fully embrace the peace process. Governor Adeleke emphasized that anyone found guilty of perpetuating or aiding the violence in any way would face the full consequences of the law. “Anybody/group/community caught or found wanting in fomenting or aiding the crisis in one way or the other will be made to face the music in line with the dictates of the law of Nigeria,” he warned.
The governor’s statement shows a clear determination to hold individuals accountable for their actions and prevent further violence in the region.
As part of the effort to restore security to the affected areas, Governor Adeleke also directed the joint security team, which includes the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to maintain 24-hour surveillance in the region. The security forces are tasked with ensuring that the fragile peace in the region is maintained and that any potential threats are swiftly addressed.
The governor’s call for continued security presence underscores the importance of maintaining law and order in a region that has seen significant violence in recent months. This increased security will help reassure residents that the government is committed to their safety and well-being.
Governor Adeleke also noted that the relaxation of the curfew would help children who were preparing to sit for national exams like WAEC, NECO, and JAMB. This was a critical consideration, as the curfew had made it difficult for students to attend school and study for these important exams. By easing the curfew, the governor hopes to allow students to resume their normal academic activities without further hindrance.
While the reduction of the curfew is a positive step, the governor made it clear that the ultimate goal is to find a lasting solution to the underlying issues that have been driving the communal violence. Governor Adeleke reiterated the importance of the peace committee’s work and urged them to expedite their efforts in resolving the conflict.
“My administration and the entire people of Osun State will not settle for less from your committee in giving us a leeway towards ensuring a lasting resolution to the age-long communal disputes,” the governor said.
As the situation in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun continues to improve, there is hope that the peace process will succeed in bringing a permanent end to the violence. However, the governor’s statement emphasizes that the cooperation of all stakeholders, including the government, traditional rulers, and residents, is essential in achieving lasting peace.
Governor Adeleke’s commitment to resolving the communal crisis in these communities is a step in the right direction. By easing the curfew, bolstering security, and focusing on dialogue and reconciliation, the state government is working toward a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Osun State.
The people of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun are encouraged to continue working with the government and security agencies to ensure that the peace that is gradually returning is sustained for the long term. The easing of the curfew is just the beginning of the process toward a lasting resolution, and all hands must be on deck to achieve the ultimate goal of lasting peace and harmony in these communities.
