To put an end to the communal clash between the towns of Ifon and Ilobu, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke yesterday issued a shoot-at-sight order to soldiers and other security personnel stationed in those areas.
According to reports, several people have died in the communal dispute between Ifon and Ilobu in the state over a land dispute.
Residents of the towns have left their homes as a result of the dispute and moved to nearby settlements in order to avoid being killed.
Residents said that more than five people have died, despite the fact that no official death toll has been reported.
Despite a swift response from the state’s government and security agencies to stop the crisis from worsening, residents have deserted the towns and moved to neighbouring communities.
Reacting to the development, the governor called on the traditional rulers in the state to ensure peace in their towns and prevent communal clashes.
He lamented that the killing was unwarranted, saying that the state government would take over the disputed land from both towns.
Adeleke said the curfew he declared in the area still subsists and that he had given shoot-at-sight orders to soldiers and other security men deployed to the area.
The age long hostility assumed a dangerous dimension on Wednesday evening when houses were burnt and other properties destroyed.
One of the residents, Mr Muideen Azeez said all his properties were burnt down but he escaped death.
Another resident, Mr Akindele Adeyemo called on the state government to find a lasting solution to the incessant clashes among the towns.
Meanwhile, the two towns have continued to trade words over the cause of the clash, which revolves around land ownership.
The Secretary, Ifon Orolu Progressive Union Board of Trustees, Chief Akinjide Adelaja said the disputed land belongs to Ifon but the spokesperson for the Olobu in Council, Chief Adegoke Ogunsola said Ilobu is the original owner of the land.
The state’s police commissioner, CP Kehinde Longe, announced that the situation was under control and assured residents on the security of their lives and property.
Ada Peter
