Masqueraders’ Clash: Apomu, Ikire Sign Peace Accord After Police Intervention

The Osun State Police Command has intervened in the recent masqueraders’ clash that erupted the Apomu and Ikoyi communities in Isokan Local Government area of the state.

This was disclosed by the Command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Osogbo.

The statement revealed that during the peace and security meeting which brought together leaders and representatives from both communities on Monday, the Osun Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Abba, urged both parties to settle their differences and work towards harmonious coexistence.

CP Umar Abba also admonished both communities to shun violence in resolving their grievances, noting that communication and dialogue were keys to resolving conflict and building harmonious relationships.

READ: Ikoyi, Apomu Spur For War After Bloody Masquerade Festival

“I want you to address your differences and work towards a harmonious coexistence.

“The two communities should shun any act of violence in resolving their grievance. Communication and dialogue are keys to resolving conflict and building harmonious relationships.”

OSUN DEFENDER had in its June 28 edition reported that one person died and houses were razed after the Egungun masquerade festival led to a clash between Ikoyi and Apomu.

It was learnt that on Sunday, June 23, 2024, the masquerade festival which began the previous Thursday, June 20, in the two neighbouring communities on a very good note went awry and led to a brawl.

Also, it was learnt that some masqueraders who are also members of the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, from Ikoyi, invaded the Oja Oba area of Apomu during the Egungun festival.

Meanwhile, in their separate responses, representatives from both communities appreciated CP Abba and the police officers serving in their communities for their prompt response in resolving the crisis.

They also promised to allow peace to reign and to continue to live in harmony.

The statement revealed that representatives of both communities were made to sign a peace accord after the meeting.

Those present at the peace meeting include Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Rural Water and Environmental Sanitation Agency, Lanre Odelade, chairmen of the two local government councils in the area, High Chiefs and leaders of the OPC from both communities.