Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government and Ifon in Orolu Local Government to curb escalating communal clashes between the two communities.
The clashes, fueled by a long-standing dispute over land ownership, have resulted in over 40 deaths and widespread destruction of property since 2023. The situation intensified after Governor Adeleke designated the disputed land as a buffer zone, a decision that further deepened tensions.
Curfew Announcement
Announcing the curfew through the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the state government said the measure, effective from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., began on Thursday, January 16, and will remain in place until further notice.
The statement read:
“Following the outbreak of another communal clash between the people of Ifon and Ilobu, the Osun State Government has imposed a 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew with immediate effect to prevent further violence and ensure peace.”
Student Killed Amid Tensions
Despite the curfew, violence continued as a student from Westland Polytechnic, Ilobu, was shot dead near the Ilobu palace. The Ilobu Development Union (IDU), in a statement signed by its National President, Pastor Olufemi Salako, condemned the killing and urged security agencies to apprehend those responsible.
“We strongly condemn the killing of the student and call on law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said.
Escalating Conflict
The renewed violence began on Monday but was temporarily subdued by security forces before resurging. Past clashes between the two communities in 2023 and 2024 also led to significant casualties and destruction.
The Osun State Government has reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and has called on residents of both communities to cooperate with security agencies during the curfew.