Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has issued a stern warning to traditional rulers in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities, threatening to dethrone them if communal clashes persist in their domains. This warning comes after reports of renewed tensions in the conflict-prone areas, despite the recent relaxation of the curfew.
The communal clashes in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities have been ongoing, with reports of violence and destruction of property. The state government has been working to restore peace and order in the affected areas. However, despite efforts to broker peace, the conflicts have continued, prompting Governor Adeleke to take a firmer stance.
Adeleke warned that any traditional ruler under whose domain fresh violence erupts would face removal from office. He emphasized that the state government would not hesitate to take decisive action against erring royal fathers and other actors involved in the crisis. “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,” Adeleke stated.
The governor reiterated that the peace agreements signed by community leaders must be upheld, warning that any breach would have serious repercussions. He emphasized that security operatives were accelerating their investigation of key figures suspected of fueling the conflict. “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 signed is not a joke. They will be held accountable. There will be accountability before the law,” Adeleke added.
Adeleke clarified that the recent adjustment of the curfew was done on humanitarian grounds, noting that many innocent people were suffering due to the actions of a few individuals instigating violence. However, he warned that any further unrest would lead to the full reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew. “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,” the governor declared.
The governor emphasized that security operatives were accelerating their investigation of key figures suspected of fueling the conflict. He also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activities that could jeopardize peace in the affected communities.
The Osun State Government’s threat to dethrone monarchs over communal clashes is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to restoring peace and order in the affected areas. The governor’s warning serves as a reminder to traditional rulers and community leaders of their responsibility to maintain peace and stability in their domains. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential that all stakeholders work together to promote lasting peace and development in Osun State.