Governor Ademola Adeleke has threatened to dethrone traditional rulers of Ifon, Erin Osun and Ilobu communities of Osun State if they fail to sustain current peace and de-escalation of the crisis in their communities.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that the three communities were embroiled in a renewed boundary crisis which left at least four people dead and many injured.
A statement by the spokesperson to the Governor, Olawale Rasheed, said the warning was issued against the backdrop of online reports that some faceless groups across the conflict areas are planning another round of 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.
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“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 are signing are not for joke. They will be held accountable. There will be accountability before the law.
“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.
“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”, the Governor was quoted as saying in the statement.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
