A communal land dispute between communities in Oka Akoko, Akoko South West Local Council area of Ondo State, has resulted in the deaths of two people.
In the violent intercommunal conflict that began on Sunday, the state police command stated that one person had died and ten others had suffered significant injuries.
Additionally, the warning youths in the towns demolished other homes, including an event hall and the Palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo.
According to a trustworthy source, those hurt in the fight were sent to the Federal Medical Centre, or FMC, in Iwaro-Oka for immediate medical attention.
According to an eyewitness report, “suspected thugs allegedly from the neighbouring Ebo community attacked Oka-Odo Community.”
“Both the palace and the event hall have been completely destroyed, and several houses were set on fire.
“Earlier that same day, members of the Owake Community had gone to install signposts on lands along Ikun road, acting in line with an Appeal Court judgment that affirmed their ownership of the disputed lands.
However, on their way back, members of the Owake Community were ambushed by suspected thugs, who launched a violent attack, leaving many injured.
“Those injured were promptly taken to the Federal Medical Centre in GRA for medical attention.”
Contacted, the state police image maker, Funmi Odunlami, said that “the clash started on January 12th, 2025 when youths from Oka Odo went on a hunting expedition and were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo community.
Odunlami added that “The Ebo youths were said to have mistaken them for individuals from Owake, with whom they have an unresolved land dispute.
” In retaliation, Oka Odo youths mobilized and invaded the Ebo community, leading to incidents of arson.
“The conflict led to casualties on both sides leading to death of 2 persons (names and identities unknown), while the injured, are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
“A police team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP Ops), has been deployed to the area to restore peace and prevent further escalation.
“The Commissioner of Police, urges the communities to seek peaceful resolutions to their disputes to avoid further loss of lives and property while assuring residents that the police would ensure that the perpetrators of violence on both sides are brought to justice.”
Wilfred Afolabi, the police commissioner, advised all sides to put their swords down because destroying property and using violence would only lead to underdevelopment and stagnation.