The Osun State Government has issued a strong warning to traditional rulers in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, stating that they could be removed from office if communal clashes in their areas continue.
Governor Ademola Adeleke made this announcement on Monday after receiving reports of renewed tensions in the conflict-prone communities. In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor made it clear that the government would not tolerate any further violence and would take serious action against those involved.
The statement also cautioned against attempts to take advantage of the recent relaxation of the curfew to reignite violence. Security agencies have been placed on high alert to prevent any attacks.
“In the midst of Sallah celebrations, I got reports of some people planning another round of conflict around Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun towns.
“The security agencies have tightened surveillance to ensure no attacks take place,” Adeleke stated.
He further noted that investigations into those suspected of fueling the violence were moving swiftly and that individuals responsible would face the consequences. The governor reminded community leaders that they had signed a peace agreement and that any violation would not be taken lightly.
“The security agencies are also speeding up the interrogation of key chieftains and actors in the conflict. I will remind top leaders of the towns that the peace undertaking they signed is not a joke. They will be held accountable. There will be accountability before the law,” he added.
Governor Adeleke also explained that the curfew was adjusted to ease the suffering of innocent residents, but any further unrest would result in its full reinstatement.
“The curfew we relaxed was on humanitarian grounds. As a compassionate government, we know many innocent people are suffering because of the evil agenda of a few elements across the conflict areas.
“Any attempt to exploit the adjustment of the curfew for renewed violence will be met with full re-imposition of the 24-hour curfew,” the governor declared.
Furthermore, he issued a final warning to traditional rulers, stating that any monarch whose domain experiences fresh violence could be dethroned. He urged them to ensure peace among their subjects, emphasizing that the government was prepared to act decisively if the clashes continued.
“Additionally, I will remove from office any traditional ruler where violence recurs. This card is on the table. Royal fathers of each town must call their subjects to order. I will wield the big stick. Enough is enough,” Adeleke stated.
