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A fresh outbreak of violence between the Ifon and Ilobu communities in Osun State has left three people dead, including a former councillor, Azeez, while 30 others sustained gunshot wounds.
The long-standing land dispute between the two towns has once again escalated into bloodshed, displacing women and children as homes were set ablaze.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has responded by imposing a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew, expressing deep dissatisfaction over the continued clashes.
This marks the eighth outbreak of violence in 18 months, despite previous curfews and the formation of a 100-member peace panel led by traditional rulers and community leaders.
Both sides have traded blame. Akeeb Adekunle, spokesperson for the Olufon of Ifon, accused Ilobu residents of repeated attacks, including arson and killing civilians. In contrast, Chief Leke Ogunsola of Ilobu claimed Ifon fighters struck first, attacking farms and displacing families.
The Osun State Police Command has deployed officers to restore order, while Governor Adeleke has summoned traditional rulers and stakeholders in a bid to prevent further violence. However, with tensions still high, residents continue to flee the conflict zone.
