The Osun State Government has issued a strong warning to traditional rulers in the communities of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, threatening dethronement if communal clashes continue to erupt within their domains.
Governor Ademola Adeleke delivered the cautionary message on Monday, following reports of renewed tensions in these historically conflict-prone areas.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor condemned any attempts to exploit the recent relaxation of the curfew to incite further violence.
He emphasised that the state government would take decisive action against any traditional ruler or community leader involved in fomenting unrest.
“I have received reports of plans to stir up more conflict around Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, even during the Sallah celebrations, The security agencies have been placed on high alert, and surveillance has been intensified to ensure no further attacks take place,” said Governor Adeleke.
The governor also underscored the ongoing investigation into key figures suspected of instigating the unrest, and reiterated that peace agreements signed by community leaders must be respected.
He warned that any breach of these accords would carry serious consequences.
“The security agencies are fast-tracking the investigation of the chieftains and other prominent actors involved in the crisis, Let me remind the leaders of these towns that the peace agreements they signed are not to be taken lightly. There will be accountability before the law,” Adeleke stated.
While acknowledging the hardship caused by the conflict, Governor Adeleke clarified that the relaxation of the curfew was done on humanitarian grounds, to alleviate the suffering of innocent citizens caught in the crossfire.
However, he warned that any further unrest would prompt the full reinstatement of a 24-hour curfew.
“The adjustment of the curfew was done with compassion in mind, knowing that many innocent lives have been disrupted by the actions of a few troublemakers, If there is any attempt to exploit this relaxation for violence, we will not hesitate to restore the full curfew,” he explained.
Adeleke’s warning extended directly to the traditional rulers, stating that any monarch whose jurisdiction sees fresh outbreaks of violence would face removal from office.
“I will not hesitate to remove any traditional ruler whose community is engulfed in fresh violence, Royal fathers must take responsibility for maintaining peace. I am prepared to wield the big stick—enough is enough,” the governor declared.
