Osun Civil Groups Decry LG Crisis, Communal Clashes, Demand Urgent Action
A coalition of civil society organisations in Osun State has raised concerns over the escalating political and security crises in the state, calling for urgent intervention to prevent further unrest.
The groups, under the aegis of Concerned Civil Society Groups in Osun, particularly condemned the local government leadership tussle and the renewed communal clashes in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, describing them as threats to the peace and stability of the state.
Addressing journalists on Saturday, the coordinator of the group, Jolapoma Bolanle Machiavelli, lamented the deteriorating situation, blaming certain political actors for inciting lawlessness in the state for their selfish interests.
He noted that rather than resorting to self-help and violent agitations, those affected by the court ruling that ousted them from office should have sought redress through legal means from the onset.
He commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his handling of the crisis, particularly his directive to newly inaugurated local government chairmen to stay clear of council secretariats, which he said prevented further bloodshed.
On the lingering communal clashes between Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities, the civil society groups condemned the violence, loss of lives, and destruction of properties that accompanied the recent conflict.
They called on the state government to take decisive action in restoring lasting peace, including prosecuting those found culpable and removing any traditional ruler found to be fuelling the crisis.
While acknowledging the governor’s swift response, which included imposing and later reviewing curfews as well as setting up IDP camps, they stressed the need for a long-term resolution to prevent future clashes.
The groups also urged Governor Adeleke to urgently address the lingering delay in issuing appointment letters to teachers who were recruited over a year ago.
They warned that the delay, coupled with the shortage of teachers in public schools, could lead to an educational crisis if left unresolved. Furthermore, they advised that members of the Imole Youth Corps deployed to schools should undergo basic training to ensure they are well-equipped for the task.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
